Research

Administrative History

The New York State Temporary Commission on Dioxin Exposure was created and its duties defined by Chapter 353 of the Laws of 1980. The commission's purpose was to inform the public, specifically Vietnam veterans and their families, about the hazardous effects of herbicides, particularly those containing dioxin. Dioxin is a chemical found in Agent Orange, a herbicide that was used liberally in the Vietnam Conflict to defoliate vegetation, thereby denying enemy combatants cover and concealment. It was only after extensive use of the chemical that its toxic effects became apparent. At the time of the commission's formation, the federal government would not provide compensation to veterans for dioxin related complications. Little was known scientifically about dioxin exposure in humans. The commission's role was to provide evidence of the dangers of chemical exposure and draw awareness to the issues faced by Vietnam-era veterans and the general public.

The temporary commission was created within the Department of Health to gather information concerning the health related effects of dioxin exposure in Vietnam-era veterans. The commission's duties included determining the medical, administrative and social care necessary to aid exposed individuals; to circulate materials informing the public of available assistance and related scientific studies; and to conduct an extensive outreach program to encourage the concerned public to contact the commission for information. The commission's outreach program advised the public on health risks of exposure to hazardous chemicals through bilingual (English and Spanish) radio and television public service announcements, posters, brochures, and advertisements. Aid was extended to other states wishing to create their own commissions on dioxin exposure.