Camp Lejeune Elective Option

What is the “Elective Option”?

In September 2023, the US Navy announced an “Elective Option” that provides cash compensation between $100,000 and $550,000 for those exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and, importantly, for their survivors or next of kin.

The “Elective Option” is a streamlined, administrative process that is an alternative to filing a case in court and going to trial.

Who is Eligible?

The “Elective Option” is somewhat complicated. There are some conditions not detailed below. If you would like to read the US Navy and Department of Justice’s document announcing the “Elective Option” you can read it here:

Public Guidance on Elective Option for Camp Lejeune Justice Act Claims

In general, anyone, Marine or civilian, who was exposed to the toxic water at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days can qualify if they have or had a qualifying medical condition.

But if that same Marine or civilian died, even decades ago, the surviving spouse or surviving children may also have a claim.

The toxic water was present at Camp Lejeune between approximately 1953 and 1987.

The qualifying medical conditions include:

Bladder, Kidney and Liver Cancer
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Leukemia
Multiple Myeloma
Parkinson’s Disease
Kidney Disease
End Stage Renal Disease
Systemic Sclerosis and Systemic Scleroderma

If the Marine or civilian exposed to the toxic water at Camp Lejeune has died, these are classes of people sho may qualify as legal representatives to recover:

Spouse of Deceased Marine
Child of Deceased Marine
Spouse of Deceased Exposed Civilians
Child of Deceased Exposed Civilians

How are cash awards determined?

Cash awards are determined by grid: