NW Kentucky News

House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer has announced an investigation into the Biden Administration's measures for providing care to federal civilian employees affected by Havana Syndrome and other anomalous health incidents (AHIs). In a letter addressed to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Comer requested a briefing on the administration's compliance with legal requirements for assisting these employees, as well as efforts made during the Trump Administration.

"The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is investigating the Department of Defense’s inadequate measures under the Biden Administration to provide legally required care for federal civilian employees suffering from Havana Syndrome and other anomalous health incidents (AHIs)," stated Chairman Comer. He further emphasized the need for information regarding "the Biden Administration’s shortcomings in complying with the law" and its plans to implement recommendations from the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

The 2022 National Defense Authorization Act requires that treatment be provided to qualified U.S. civilian government employees and their families impacted by AHIs. A GAO report in 2024 highlighted significant issues in patient access to health systems and implementing an AHI patient registry within the Department of Defense. Federal civilian employees have reported challenges in accessing timely medical care.

Chairman Comer expressed support for "the Department’s new initiative of ‘restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding our military, and reestablishing deterrence.’" He stressed that alongside this mission, there should be a focus on healthcare needs for both military personnel and federal civilians returning home after serving their country.

A staff-level briefing has been sought by Comer's committee to gain insight into previous shortcomings and how they align with past approaches under the Trump Administration.