Compensation and Medical Aid for Vieques Residents After Military Activities
This act aims to provide financial compensation to residents of Vieques, Puerto Rico, who suffered health issues due to long-term U.S. military activities. It also mandates the construction and funding of a modern medical facility and environmental and health research programs to improve the quality of life on the island.
Key points
Vieques residents who lived on the island for at least 5 years and suffer from specific diseases (e.g., cancer, hypertension, diabetes, heavy metal poisoning) due to military activities can claim compensation ranging from $50,000 to $110,000.
The act provides for the construction and funding of a modern medical center on Vieques, equipped with an oncology and dialysis unit, and ensures medical transport off the island for emergencies.
A Special Master will be appointed to process compensation claims and oversee the construction and operation of the medical facility, as well as environmental contamination research.
Compensation is treated as damages for suffering and will not be counted as income or resources for determining eligibility for other benefits.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_1317
Sponsor: Rep. Velazquez, Nydia M. [D-NY-7]
Process start date: 2021-02-24