Fairness for 9/11 Families Technical Fix Act
Summary
The "Fairness for 9/11 Families Technical Fix Act" amends the Justice for United States Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Act. It aims to correct an issue related to payments to Havlish Settling Judgment Creditors, who are plaintiffs with eligible claims arising from the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The bill ensures these creditors receive funds previously withheld and are eligible for future payments from the United States Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund.
Expected Effects
This act will release funds held in escrow to Havlish Settling Judgment Creditors. It also clarifies their eligibility for future payments from the fund, ensuring they are treated equitably with other claimants. The technical fix retroactively applies to December 29, 2022.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures equitable treatment for Havlish Settling Judgment Creditors.
- Releases previously withheld funds to these creditors.
- Clarifies eligibility for future payments, providing financial security.
- Addresses a technical issue in the original legislation, improving its effectiveness.
- Provides closure and justice for victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Potential Disadvantages
- May require administrative adjustments to the fund's distribution process.
- Could potentially open the door for similar technical corrections for other claimant groups, increasing complexity.
- The focus on one specific group of claimants might be perceived as unequal treatment by others, though it aims to correct a prior inequity.
- No direct disadvantages to the American people at large.
- Limited impact beyond the specific group of claimants addressed.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it seeks to provide compensation to victims of terrorism, a matter of national concern. The Fifth Amendment's due process clause is also relevant, as the bill aims to ensure fair treatment and just compensation for the Havlish Settling Judgment Creditors. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).