This bill makes technical corrections to the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, aiming to clarify and streamline the legal process for individuals harmed by contaminated water. It revises the evidentiary standards for establishing a causal link, modifies jurisdiction and venue rules, and sets limits on attorney fees for claims. The legislation clarifies that claimants must demonstrate a causal relationship between contaminants and harm that is "at least as likely as not," alongside proof of at least 30 days presence at Camp Lejeune. It establishes exclusive jurisdiction for coordinated pretrial matters in the Eastern District of North Carolina, allowing claims to be transferred to other specified district courts for trial, and grants the right to a jury trial upon request. Additionally, the bill caps attorney fees at 20 percent for pre-action settlements and 25 percent for post-action judgments or settlements, with provisions for proportional fee division. These amendments are retroactive to August 10, 2022, applying to all pending or future claims.
Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act of 2025
USA119th CongressHR-4145| House
| Updated: 6/25/2025
This bill makes technical corrections to the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, aiming to clarify and streamline the legal process for individuals harmed by contaminated water. It revises the evidentiary standards for establishing a causal link, modifies jurisdiction and venue rules, and sets limits on attorney fees for claims. The legislation clarifies that claimants must demonstrate a causal relationship between contaminants and harm that is "at least as likely as not," alongside proof of at least 30 days presence at Camp Lejeune. It establishes exclusive jurisdiction for coordinated pretrial matters in the Eastern District of North Carolina, allowing claims to be transferred to other specified district courts for trial, and grants the right to a jury trial upon request. Additionally, the bill caps attorney fees at 20 percent for pre-action settlements and 25 percent for post-action judgments or settlements, with provisions for proportional fee division. These amendments are retroactive to August 10, 2022, applying to all pending or future claims.