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Bill

HR 876

To amend the Defense Base Act to exclude Guam.

119th Congress Introduced by Jim Moylan

HR 876 excludes Guam from the Defense Base Act, impacting workers' compensation for employees and requiring employers to adjust compliance and insurance practices.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 876

Summary of HR 876: Amendment to the Defense Base Act

Bill Number: HR 876
Title: To amend the Defense Base Act to exclude Guam
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: January 31, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 876 is to amend the Defense Base Act (DBA) by explicitly excluding Guam from the definition of "territory or possession outside the continental United States." This legislative change aims to clarify the applicability of the DBA in relation to Guam, potentially impacting the legal and financial responsibilities associated with workers' compensation for employees working on military bases and other federal contracts in the region.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following amendments to the Defense Base Act:

  1. Modification of Definitions:
    • Paragraph (4): The bill amends this paragraph by adding "and Guam" to the existing text, which currently defines territories or possessions outside the continental United States.
    • New Paragraph (5): A new paragraph is added to clarify that "the term Territory or possession outside the continental United States does not include Guam."

These changes aim to ensure that Guam is treated distinctly from other territories in the context of the DBA.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Workers in Guam: Employees working on federal contracts or military bases in Guam may see changes in their workers' compensation coverage under the DBA.
  • Employers: Companies operating in Guam that are subject to the DBA will need to adjust their compliance and insurance practices in light of this exclusion.
  • Government Agencies: Federal agencies managing contracts in Guam may need to reassess their obligations and liabilities concerning workers' compensation.

Potential Implications

The exclusion of Guam from the DBA could lead to:
- Changes in Workers' Compensation Coverage: Workers in Guam may not be covered under the same provisions as those in other territories, potentially affecting their benefits.
- Legal Clarity: The amendment aims to provide clearer legal definitions, which could reduce disputes regarding coverage and compensation claims.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 31, 2025: HR 876 was introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce for further consideration.

This bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, and further actions will determine its progression and potential enactment.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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