Havana Act Amendments Cover Brain Injuries from 9/11 Onward
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Rule
Summary
The HAVANA Act rules just got a big update! Now, people hurt by brain injuries from September 11, 2001, onward can file claims—not just those injured after 2016. Plus, if your claim is denied, you’ve got 60 days to appeal. These changes start March 16, 2026, and could mean more folks get the help they deserve.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Claims Window Expanded Back to 2001
If you are a current employee, former employee, or a dependent with a qualifying brain injury, you can now file a HAVANA Act claim for injuries that occurred on or after September 11, 2001 (instead of only on or after January 1, 2016). This change was made by the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026 and is effective March 16, 2026.
Sixty-Day Appeal Deadline Set
If your HAVANA Act claim is denied, you must file a written appeal to the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources within 60 calendar days after the date of the adverse decision. People who already received an adverse decision dated on or before March 16, 2026, have until March 16, 2026, to file an appeal.
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