Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act

S 1656 establishes a compensation program for Vieques residents (in Puerto Rico) who developed specific illnesses - like cancer, diabetes, or heavy metal poisoning - due to 60+ years of U.S. military activity on the island. It awards $50,000 to $110,000 per qualifying illness based on the number of diseases, processed by a Special Master appointed by the Attorney General. The bill also mandates funding to build a new level-3 trauma medical facility with cancer and renal care, including interim services like air transport and telemedicine until the facility opens. All compensation and facility costs are capped at $1 billion, with claims needing to be filed within 15 years of the bill’s enactment.