Laos is the most bombed country in history as a result of U.S. bombings from 1964-1973, leaving close to half of the country contaminated with vast quantities of unexploded ordnance, including 78 million cluster bombs that litter forests, rice fields, villages, school grounds, roads, and other populated areas.

Over 34,000 people have been killed or injured since the bombing ceased, most of whom are children. Every year, over 350 new casualties occur. Half of the cluster munitions casualties worldwide have occurred in Laos.

It is my strong belief that the continued harm and injury caused by bombs dropped nearly four decades ago is morally unacceptable.

Through my signature on A Peaceful Legacy Petition, I fully support the effort to increase U.S. funding to help clear contaminated land and provide assistance to victims and affected communities.