In early August, the VA created a faster track for veterans exposed to burn pits during deployment to obtain disability compensation for three conditions. Disability claims for asthma, rhinitis, or sinusitis will now be processed on a presumptive basis, making it easier for veterans to receive benefits for these conditions. This will apply not only to veterans who served in Southwest Asia beginning August 2, 1990 but also to veterans who served in Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Syria, or Djibouti beginning Sept. 19, 2001. VA Secretary Denis McDonough stated that this presumptive approach is “the right decision, and VA will continue to use a holistic approach in determining toxic exposure presumptives moving forward."