Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit
- Last Updated: October 20th, 2025
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Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit
The water contamination at Camp Lejeune is a devastating environmental disaster that has impacted the lives of thousands of Marines, their families, and civilian employees.
The United States government has failed to address the health concerns of these individuals adequately and has dragged its feet in providing compensation for those who have been injured.
It is time for the government to do right by the Marines and their relatives who have been severely impacted by this tragedy.
They deserve to be compensated for their injuries, and the government must be held accountable for its failure to protect them.
This article will provide a more detailed overview of the water contamination case at Camp Lejeune and the legal options that are available to those who have been impacted.
Table of Contents
Lawsuit Updates
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The Biden-Harris Administration has implemented new EPA rules banning trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), two toxic chemicals tied to the Camp Lejeune water contamination crisis.
These measures represent a major milestone in protecting public health and preventing future exposure to these dangerous substances.
TCE and PCE’s Role in Camp Lejeune Water ContaminationFor decades, TCE and PCE polluted Camp Lejeune’s drinking water, causing widespread harm.
TCE has been linked to severe health issues, including liver and kidney cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and damage to the central nervous and immune systems.
PCE has been associated with cancers of the liver, kidney, and brain, as well as reproductive and neurological effects.
Details of the EPA’s New RegulationsKey aspects of the EPA’s rules under the TSCA amendments include:
- A one-year deadline to ban all TCE uses, with limited exemptions requiring strict worker protections.
- A three-year phaseout for PCE in consumer and most commercial applications, extending to 10 years for dry cleaning.
- Mandatory workplace safety programs, including chemical exposure monitoring for industries that continue limited use.
Implications for Camp Lejeune SurvivorsFor veterans and families exposed to Camp Lejeune’s toxic water, the EPA’s ban represents long-overdue recognition of the risks posed by TCE and PCE.
This decision is a win for advocates working to ensure similar contamination doesn’t occur elsewhere.
Our Camp Lejeune lawyers will continue to fight for justice for our clients.
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What is Camp Lejeune?
Camp Lejeune is a marine corps base located in North Carolina.
The base was established in 1942 and has been used for various training exercises and operations over the years.
In the 1980s, it was discovered that the water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with harmful chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE).
These chemicals are known to cause or increase the risk of contracting a variety of health problems, including cancer.
Thousands of veterans and their loved ones have been devastated by the Camp Lejeune water contamination.
In 2014, Congress passed the Honoring Veterans and Their Families Act, which provided health care benefits to those affected by the contamination.
The Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is currently affecting and involving many.
If you or a family member have been impacted by the toxic water at Camp Lejeune, you may be eligible to receive compensation.
What Happened at Camp Lejeune?
The water contamination at Camp Lejeune occurred over a period of several decades, beginning in the 1950s.
The contaminated water was used for drinking, cooking, and bathing by Marines, their families, and civilian employees.
As mentioned previously, this water was contaminated with a variety of chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride.
Exposure to these kinds of chemicals has been linked to many serious health conditions, including cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, and more.
Thousands of people have been impacted by the contamination, and many have died as a result.
It was not until recent years that the full extent of the contamination and its health effects came to light.
What's the timeline of the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit?
In 1941, Camp Lejeune was set up as a Marine Corps base. The Tarawa Terrace treatment plant was created for water supply in 1951.
Unfortunately, a few years later, water inspectors knew there were contamination issues at Camp Lejeune.
By 1953, the One Hour Dry Cleaner, a dry-cleaning business located on the base, was found to be contaminating well water with dry cleaning chemicals such as PCE (perchloroethylene).
Then, by 1979 around 30,000 gallons of oil had leaked from Hadnot Point Fuel Farm, creating an oil plume below ground.
An underground oil plume is when oil seeps through the soil and gets trapped below the ground.
This can contaminate water sources like wells, and the oil plume created by the Hadnot Point Fuel Farm contaminated the Tarawa Terrace well field.
Fuel leaks such as these raise the level of toxicity in the water by introducing carcinogenic chemicals such as benzene.
Subsequently, in 1984, an external contractor discovered benzene, TCE (trichloroethylene), PCE and other volatile organic compounds present in the Hadnot Point Water Well.
Due to these findings, all Hadnot Point wells were shut down by 1985.
However, by this time, many of the residents at Camp Lejeune had already been drinking contaminated water for years.
In 1989, Camp Lejeune was declared a superfund site by the EPA. The EPA’s Superfund program is designed to clean up the nation’s most contaminated sites.
The fact that Camp Lejeune is a superfund site means that the EPA was and is currently in charge of investigating and cleaning up the contamination.
The investigation found that there were multiple sources of contamination at Camp Lejeune, including the dry cleaner, the fuel farm, and a number of leaking underground storage tanks.
The investigation also found that the Tarawa Terrace treatment plant was not properly treating the water to remove contaminants.
The EPA has been working to clean up the contamination at Camp Lejeune since the superfund designation in 1989.
In the meantime, many of the Marines and their families who were exposed to the contaminated water have filed lawsuits against the companies responsible for the contamination.
Who is the EPA, and what are superfund sites?
The EPA is the Environmental Protection Agency, which is a federal government agency that is mainly in charge of protecting human health and that of the environment.
The EPA was created in 1970 by President Richard Nixon.
Superfund sites are contaminated areas that have been designated by the EPA as needing cleanup due to the presence of hazardous substances.
There are currently 1,300 superfund sites in the United States, and Camp Lejeune is one of them.
How did the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit begin?
In 2009, victims of the contamination at Camp Lejeune began filing lawsuits against the U.S government under the Federal Tort Claims Act, proposing that they had developed illnesses ranging from cancer to kidney disease as a result of the contaminated water.
These lawsuits were eventually consolidated into a multidistrict litigation class action lawsuit, which was filed in 2012.
Marine Corps veterans and their relatives filed 800 lawsuits in 2016 related to water contamination at Camp Lejeune.
The Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits resulted in no legal recourse for victims even by 2018, but eventually, the House of Representatives introduced the Camp Lejeune Justice Act in 2021.
The act was then added to a larger collective bill which is called the Honoring Our Pact Act in 2022, which was then passed by Congress this year.
Camp Lejeune Water Supply
The contamination of the waters at Marine Bases in Lejeune has existed for more than 30 years. Camp Lejeune’s water contamination could possibly have been the result of a dry cleaning operation located near its base. In the drying operations, improper disposal of industrial chemicals in sewage and drainage channels led to improper discharge. The chemical also affected the water at the Tarawa Terrace wastewater treatment facility and Hadnot Point. Toxica substances have been traced to water treatment plants mentioned in this document located on the Marine Corps Base.
Camp Lejeune Water Supply
The contamination of the waters at Marine Bases in Lejeune has existed for more than 30 years. Camp Lejeune’s water contamination could possibly have been the result of a dry cleaning operation located near its base. In the drying operations, improper disposal of industrial chemicals in sewage and drainage channels led to improper discharge. The chemical also affected the water at the Tarawa Terrace wastewater treatment facility and Hadnot Point. Toxica substances have been traced to water treatment plants mentioned in this document located on the Marine Corps Base.
The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) is a law that allows private citizens to sue the United States government for personal injuries caused by the negligence of federal employees.
To bring any claim under the FTCA, plaintiffs have to initially file an administrative claim with the relevant federal agency and then go on to file a lawsuit in federal court if their claim is denied.
What’s a class action lawsuit?
Initially, the Camp Lejeune victims’ claims were grouped into a class action lawsuit.
This is a type of lawsuit where a group of plaintiffs with similar claims file one lawsuit on behalf of all members of the group.
Class action lawsuits are often used when there are many plaintiffs with relatively small individual claims.
In a class action lawsuit, the court appoints one or more of the plaintiffs (called “class representatives”) to represent the interests of all members of the class.
The class representatives must be typical of the rest of the class in terms of their claims and interests.
The class representatives and their attorneys then work together to investigate the claims and develop legal arguments.
They also negotiate with the defendants to try to reach a settlement agreement.
If a settlement is not reached, then the case will go to trial.
If the plaintiffs win at trial, each member of the class will usually receive a share of the damages awarded by the jury.
If the plaintiffs lose, each member of the class is bound by the result and cannot sue separately on their own behalf.
Class action lawsuits can be filed in state or federal court, but most are filed in federal court.
Due to the law that was passed on August 10th 2022, the Camp Lejeune lawsuit is no longer a class action lawsuit, and individuals can now make personal claims for the illnesses they suffered as a result of the water contamination.
What are the effects of the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune?
Contaminated water containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to a variety of health problems, including:
- Cancer
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Immune system disorders
- Reproductive problems
- Birth defects
These health effects can occur years or even decades after exposure to contaminated water.
In some cases, the effects may not be immediately apparent, which can make it difficult to link them to the exposure.
However, those living in Camp Lejeune and in that vicinity reported seeing an increase in cases of these health problems, particularly cancer.
VOCs are common in many chemicals, including solvents and degreasers, and can easily enter the water supply through leaks or spills.
The Marine Corps has acknowledged that VOCs were present in the water at Camp Lejeune for many years, and they likely had harmful health effects on those who were exposed.
However, they have not taken responsibility for these health problems or offered any compensation to those affected.
So, if you were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the time when the water was contaminated, you might be eligible to file a lawsuit and claim compensation.
What are some of the toxic chemicals found in Camp Lejeune?
Trichloroethylene
TCE (trichloroethylene) is a solvent used in many industries, including dry cleaning, and can be found in adhesives, paint removers, and spot cleaners.
The EPA has classified TCE as a human carcinogen, and it is linked to several types of cancer, including leukemia, breast cancer, and kidney cancer.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has also released a report stating that TCE exposure can cause non-cancer health effects, such as liver damage, kidney damage, and neurological effects.
Perchloroethylene
PCE is a synthetic dry-cleaning solvent.
When it evaporates, it leaves behind a residue that can be harmful to your health.
Short-term exposure to PCE can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea.
Long-term exposure can damage your liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
PCE has also been linked to cancer.
Benzene
Benzene is a chemical compound that is often used as an industrial solvent.
It can be found in crude oil and is a component of gasoline.
Benzene is also used to make other chemicals, including plastics, resins, and synthetic fibres.
Exposure to benzene can cause serious health problems, including cancer.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified benzene as a carcinogen.
Vinyl chloride
Vinyl chloride is a synthetic chemical used in the production of PVC plastic.
It is also used as a solvent in the production of many other chemicals.
This chemical is classified as a carcinogen, meaning that it has been linked to cancer in humans.
Symptoms of vinyl chloride exposure are similar to the other chemicals mentioned earlier and include liver damage, skin lesions, and cancers of the liver, kidney, brain, and lungs.
Long-term exposure to this chemical can also cause neurological damage, including memory loss and impaired coordination.
There is no safe level of exposure to this chemical, and even short-term exposure can be dangerous.
Is there scientific and medical evidence that links toxic chemicals found in Camp Lejeune to these diseases?
Though you may be familiar with the list of diseases caused or related to Camp Lejeune contamination, you may not know how the toxic chemicals found in the water at Camp Lejeune are linked to these diseases.
Here is a brief explanation of the scientific and medical evidence that links these chemicals to the specific health conditions outlined by the VA and what these health conditions entail.
Leukemia
This is the most common childhood cancer.
The cause is unknown, but environmental factors are linked to some cases.
Exposure to certain chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia.
One such chemical is benzene, which is found in gasoline and other petroleum products.
Benzene exposure can occur through inhalation or skin contact.
Benzene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and is a well-known and researched carcinogen that was found in the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and has been linked to all kinds of leukemia.
Studies have revealed that being exposed to other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – like trichloroethylene (TCE) and other dry cleaning solvents – also increases the risk of leukemia.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
This is a form of cancer that attacks the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system.
The lymphatic system includes the spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and lymph nodes.
The cause of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is unknown, but it’s thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including viruses, bacteria, and certain chemicals.
There is a strong link between non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, solvents, pesticides, and herbicides.
Studies have shown that people who are exposed to chemicals like Benzene, TCE and PCE (all found in water at Camp Lejeune) have a higher risk of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Bladder cancer
This is a type of cancer that begins to grow in the bladder.
Bladder cancer can occur anywhere in the urinary tract, but it most commonly affects the lining of the bladder.
It is one of the most common cancers affecting men.
Other risk factors include exposure to certain toxic chemicals, such as those that are used in the manufacture of rubber, textiles, and leather.
Perchloroethylene (PCE) exposure has also been correlated with an increased chance of developing this cancer, and multiple studies have been conducted on those exposed to PCE, like industrial workers, showing the positive correlation between the two.
Kidney cancer
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is another chemical found in Camp Lejeune’s water.
It is a solvent used in dry cleaning, metal degreasing, and as an adhesive.
TCE is a well-researched carcinogen and has a strong causal link to kidney cancer.
Parkinson’s disease
This neurodegenerative disorder most often affects people over the age of 50, and can lead to tremors, muscle rigidity, slowed movement, and impaired balance and coordination.
Exposure to certain toxins found at Camp Lejeune, such as TCE, has been linked to a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune and later developed Parkinson’s may be eligible for disability benefits from the VA.
Multiple Myeloma
When someone has multiple myeloma, plasma cells which are cancerous accumulate in the bone marrow, leaving no room for healthy blood cells.
This can cause a decrease in red blood cells, which can lead to fatigue and anemia.
It can also cause a drop in white blood cells, leading to a higher risk of infection.
In addition, the cancerous plasma cells can produce abnormal antibodies, which can cause kidney problems.
It’s a difficult and expensive cancer to treat.
TCE and benzene, two (2) of the chemicals found in the water at Camp Lejeune, have been linked as one of the causes for residents who developed this cancer.
Do I need a lawyer for Camp Lejeune water contamination?
You are not required to have a lawyer file a claim, but it is highly recommended to seek advice from Camp Lejeune lawyers.
The process of filing a claim can be complicated and time-consuming, and Camp Lejeune attorneys can help you navigate the process and ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation to which you are entitled.
If you have been diagnosed with one of the covered diseases, you may be eligible for benefits from the Veterans Affairs (VA) Department.
However, the VA does not automatically provide compensation for these conditions – you must file a claim and prove that your illness is related to the contaminated Camp Lejeune water supply.
Camp Lejeune lawyers can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong claim.
What’s more, the application process can be convoluted, and it is important to make sure that you submit all of the required documentation.
Having Camp Lejeune lawyers on hand can help you ensure that your application is complete and accurate and can help you navigate the appeals process if your claim is denied.
A lawyer can also help you file a claim under the CLJA, which provides for death benefits to be paid to the surviving spouse, child, or parent of a veteran who died as a result of one of the qualifying illnesses associated with the water contamination at Camp Lejeune.
The Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit is an important step in providing justice for the people who were impacted by the contamination at Camp Lejeune.
It is hoped that the Camp Lejeune lawsuit will help to hold the government accountable for what happened and to prevent situations like this from occurring again in the future.
What’s more, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act will help to ensure that the people who were affected by the contamination of the Camp Lejeune water supply receive the compensation they deserve.
Although no amount of money can atone for the loss of life or human suffering, the CLJA will at least provide some measure of justice for the victims of this tragedy.
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With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three. She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.
In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.
In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!
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Camp Lejeune's water contamination issue spanned several decades starting in the 1950s. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to various serious health issues, including cancer, organ diseases, and death.
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Have A Case?
Here, at Tru Lawsuit Info, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.
To do this, we actively work to connect them with attorneys who are experts in litigating cases similar to theirs.
Would you like our help?
