I 112th CONGRESS 1st Session H. R. 2419 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES July 6, 2011 Mr. Connolly of Virginia introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs A BILL To amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of combat with the enemy for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

1.

Short title

This Act may be cited as the Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theater Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act or the COMBAT PTSD Act.

2.

Clarification of meaning of combat with the enemy for purposes of service-connection of disabilities

(a)

Clarification

Section 1154(b) of title 38, United States Code, is amended— (1)by striking In the case and inserting (1) In the case; and (2)by adding at the end the following new paragraph: (2)For the purposes of this subsection, the term combat with the enemy includes service on active duty— (A)in a theater of combat operations (as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Defense) during a period of war; or (B)in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities. . (b)

Effective date

Paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of section 1154 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to a claim for disability compensation under chapter 11 of such title pending on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.