House unanimously passes bill to aid "Havana Syndrome" victims

The House of Representatives on Tuesday unanimously passed a bill that would authorize payments to those impacted by "Havana Syndrome" — a mysterious illness known to produce neurological symptoms that has affected scores of U.S. officials and personnel in multiple countries. The Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks Act, also known as the HAVANA Act, now goes to President Joe Biden's desk for approval.

"There is no higher priority than protecting our people. None," Representative Adam Schiff, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, said in a statement. "As we examine the cause of the illness known as Havana Syndrome, we must ensure those impacted get the care they deserve."

The bill authorizes government agencies to pay personnel who suffered from injuries related to Havana Syndrome while on the job. Those affected both before and after the bill is enacted will be eligible for payments.