HR-6049 : Still Just a Bill

The Air America Act of 2023, or H.R. 6049, aims to provide financial awards to former employees of Air America and its affiliated companies, or their survivors, for their service to the United States from 1950 to 1976. Key provisions include:

• Eligibility: Individuals who were U.S. citizens employed by Air America or affiliated companies (Air Asia Company Limited, CAT Incorporated, Civil Air Transport Company Limited, and the Pacific Division of Southern Air Transport) between January 1, 1950, and December 31, 1976, and whose service can be documented. Survivors of these individuals or those killed in Southeast Asia during that period are also eligible.
• Award Amounts: $40,000 for those with 5 or more years of qualifying service, with an additional $8,000 for each additional full year of service beyond 5 years.
• Funding: The total amount of awards is capped at $60,000,000, with provisions for the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to request additional funds from Congress if needed.
• Application Process: The Director of the CIA will establish procedures for submitting claims, awarding payments, and appealing determinations within 60 days after the enactment of the Act. Claimants have 2 years from the date the regulations go into effect to apply.
• Limitations: The Act does not entitle recipients to federal benefits, change the legal status of Air America, or create any legal rights beyond the one-time award. Attorney fees are capped at 25% of the award amount.
• Oversight: The Director of the CIA will submit semiannual reports to Congress on the number of awards made and denied, and any funding shortfalls. Determinations by the Director are final and not subject to judicial review.