WASHINGTON D.C. — Calling it a “critical step towards understanding and addressing” the mysterious illnesses known as “Havana Syndrome,” a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation requesting a comprehensive briefing from the Department of Defense (DOD).
Representatives Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), alongside colleagues Rick Crawford (R-AR), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Trent Kelly (R-MS), unveiled the Initiating Imperative Reporting on Anomalous Health Incidents Act (IIR on AHI Act) today.
Seeking transparency and action:
- The bill directs the DOD to brief Congress on confirmed or suspected cases of AHI impacting service members and civilian personnel,including the number affected,location of incidents, and timeframe.
- It further demands an update on strategies to protect personnel from AHI’s effects and ongoing efforts to address, prevent, and respond to such incidents.
Congressman Wenstrup, a physician and retired Army Colonel:
“Reports of DOD service members, civilians, diplomats, and intelligence officers experiencing similar unexplained symptoms, including dizziness, headache, memory loss, and cognitive difficulties, deeply concern me. This legislation provides critical information crucial to supporting the health and well-being of those who serve our country.”
Congresswoman Spanberger, a former CIA case officer:
“I’ve spoken directly with impacted public servants, including Virginians. Understanding the extent of these incidents and developing a strategy to address them is crucial. Our national security shouldn’t be a partisan issue.”
Statement from Congressman Kelly:
“This critical step mandates a comprehensive briefing to Congress on Havana Syndrome incidents. This will offer insight into the scale and severity of the health issues faced and accelerate our efforts to protect those who serve our nation.”
Background:
- AHI, also known as “Havana Syndrome,” comprises unexplained medical symptoms first documented among US State Department personnel in Havana, Cuba, in 2016.
- Similar symptoms have been reported by diplomats and intelligence personnel in various countries, with some leaving active service due to complications.
- Existing legislation requires reporting from the Department of State, but not the DOD.
