U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, on July 26 spoke on the House Floor in support of the Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks Act of 2021, or the HAVANA Act.

The bill, which Schiff introduced with Reps. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) and Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), will grant additional authority to the director of the Central Intelligence Agency and the secretary of state to provide disability benefits to Americans afflicted by the anomalous health incidents in Havana, Cuba and around the world.

“Every day, thousands of patriotic Americans serve our country abroad, representing our values and interests across the globe,” Schiff said. “They are diplomats, soldiers, intelligence officers and more. But we must never forget they are also mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, and sons and daughters who routinely make tremendous personal sacrifices in service of their country. And in return for their service to our nation, we have a sacred responsibility to make sure we take care of them.”

He said public servants from the intelligence community have experienced symptoms of “unknown origins” over the past several years.

“These cases, which have been described as Havana Syndrome or anomalous health incidents, named for the cohort whose symptoms onset in Havana, remain a mystery,” Schiff added. “But two things are clear. First, we must spare no effort to identify their source, and to hold anyone responsible accountable. And second, we must ensure those who are injured receive the highest quality of care and benefits they need as they recover.”

He said the HAVANA Act would expand the authority given to the intelligence community and U.S. Department of State in 2019 to provide compensation to personnel experiencing such injuries, as well as those suffering from traumatic brain injuries.

“Due to the unique circumstances under which the payments would be authorized to covered employees, individuals and dependents for certain qualifying brain injuries, it’s our intent that for taxation purposes, any benefits paid shall be treated as payments received under workmen’s compensation acts as compensation for personal injuries or sickness,” the Congressman said. “Even as we pass this legislation, our work is not done. On a bipartisan basis, the Intelligence Committee has continued to provide rigorous oversight of how individuals experiencing these health incidents were treated and how they are being treated today. We will continue to prioritize this issue and put our people first.”