HI SR16

Request that the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs amend laws or regulations to provide equal health care benefits to veterans from Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of the Marshall Islands (COFA nations) as those received by veterans from Guam and Commonwealth of Northern Marianas Islands.

Require Department of Defense recruiters in COFA nations to inform potential recruits of the lack of health care benefits after service through a signed waiver by end of fiscal year 2017 if equal benefits are not provided.

Request that the Department of State, Department of Defense, Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for International Development, and Department of Interior develop and fund a health care plan for Pacific Island veterans extending from 2023 through fiscal year 2066 or when U.S. military relationship with COFA nations expires.

Direct transmission of certified copies of the resolution to the Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Health and Human Services, USAID Administrator, and Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas.