Opinion editor's note: Editorials represent the opinions of the Star Tribune Editorial Board, which operates independently from the newsroom.
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A landmark health bill could help a stunning number of military veterans suffering from exposure to toxic burn pits, Agent Orange and other harmful agents.
"About one in five living American veterans could benefit from the PACT Act," the Military Times estimates.
But this vital legislation can't help anyone without Senate passage. That its fate is now in limbo after 41 Republican senators torpedoed its path through their chamber this week is a national disgrace.
The list of shame includes names from neighboring states: Sens. Joni Ernst of Iowa, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and North Dakota's Kevin Cramer, as well as John Thune and Mike Rounds from South Dakota. They voted no on "cloture," a procedural hurdle that bills must clear before a floor vote. It requires 60 votes, not a simple majority.
Minnesota's U.S. senators, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, both voted in favor of helping sick veterans. So did Republicans Chuck Grassley of Iowa and John Hoeven of North Dakota.
Comedian Jon Stewart, a passionate advocate for veterans and 9/11 responders, rained down profanities after the no vote. Veterans' groups also erupted in anger.