Justice for Veterans and Victims of Terrorism Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Taylor, David J. [R-OH-2]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 17, 2026
Bottom line
This bill requires a comprehensive study by the Comptroller General on expanding eligibility for terrorism victim payments under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act and accounting for related forfeited funds.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a comprehensive study and submit a report to Congress by December 31, 2028. The study will assess the implications of expanding the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act's (FSIA) terrorism exception to include victims of attempted extrajudicial killings or assaults who suffered injury, including psychiatric injuries, but not death. It also requires an accounting of funds forfeited to the U.S. government since December 18, 2015, under various acts related to state sponsors of terrorism.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is a crucial step towards ensuring justice and compensation for a broader range of terrorism victims, particularly those who suffered severe injuries, including psychological ones, but were previously excluded due to the 'no death' clause. They emphasize the importance of understanding the financial implications and legislative changes needed to rectify this perceived gap in current law, and to track funds that could potentially be used for victim compensation.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that expanding the scope of eligibility without a clear funding mechanism could create an unfunded mandate or place an undue burden on existing victim compensation funds. They might also raise concerns about the administrative complexity and potential for a flood of new claims, or question the practicality of retroactively applying such changes. Some might also argue that the current FSIA framework is appropriately balanced.
The bill is very short and can be read quickly, making it highly accessible for public review.
Section 2
Study on Expanding FSIA Terrorism Exception and Forfeited Funds
This section directs the Comptroller General to conduct a study and submit a report to Congress by December 31, 2028. The study must analyze how many more individuals would qualify for payments if the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act's (FSIA) terrorism exception were expanded to cover victims of attempted extrajudicial killings or assaults who suffered injuries, including psychiatric ones, but did not die. It also requires an estimate of the additional funding needed and proposed legislative amendments. Furthermore, the study must list all funds and proceeds from property sales forfeited to the U.S. government since December 18, 2015, under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Trading with the Enemy Act (TWEA), or other federal offenses related to state sponsors of terrorism, along with any interest earned.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this study is essential to identify and address a perceived inequity in current law, where victims who survive severe terrorist attacks with lasting injuries may not receive the same recognition or compensation as those whose attacks resulted in death. They contend that understanding the scope and financial implications is a necessary first step towards providing comprehensive justice for all victims of state-sponsored terrorism.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that while the intent is noble, the study could raise expectations for compensation that may be difficult to meet financially, potentially leading to disappointment. They might also suggest that the existing framework, while imperfect, is designed to manage complex international legal challenges and that expanding it could open a 'Pandora's Box' of claims, potentially straining diplomatic relations or existing compensation funds.
Tradeoffs
The bill navigates the tension between providing comprehensive justice for all victims of terrorism and the practical challenges of funding and administering expanded compensation programs, as well as the complexities of international law and sovereign immunity.