Nice, France Terrorist Attack: HOLD THE SENATE ACCOUNTABLE!!!!!!

Eight years ago, my family and I experienced a life-shattering event while vacationing in Nice, France, on Bastille Day. In a horrific act of terrorism, a truck drove into the crowd, killing 86 people, including our father, Sean, and our 11-year-old brother, Brodie. Nice, France Terrorist Attack: What We Know. In an instant, our lives were changed forever, and we were left with unimaginable grief and anger.

We found solace in the possibility of justice and sought to hold the perpetrators accountable. We learned that Congress had created the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism (USVSST) Fund, which was supposed to provide relief to American victims of state-sponsored terrorism. Unfortunately, we soon discovered that the fund is essentially broken and depleted, and victims like us are not receiving the compensation they deserve.

Last week, a federal court ruled in our favor, acknowledging Syria's role in the attack and awarding our family a judgment. However, due to the issues with the USVSST Fund, we realized that we would not receive any meaningful relief. This is unacceptable and a broken promise by Congress, who assured victims of terrorism that they would obtain justice and compensation for their suffering.

We found hope in May with the introduction of the American Victims of Terrorism Compensation Act in the House of Representatives. This bill aims to fix the funding issues and finally provide closure to victims. We are grateful to Representative Troy Nehls and the other co-sponsors for their support. Now, we urge Senator John Cornyn, who has promised to advocate for victims like us, to champion this bill in the Senate and fulfill his commitment to pass legislation fixing the USVSST Fund.

Senator Cornyn, we demand that you take action and ensure that the monetary sums intended for the fund reach their destination. The bill has bipartisan support, and it is crucial that you lead the effort in the Senate to provide new and sustainable funding sources without relying on tax dollars. The distribution in 2024 cannot come soon enough for victims who have waited far too long.

We, the victims, are relying on you, Senator Cornyn, and the rest of the Senate, to deliver on your promises and show that Congress stands with us. Passing this legislation will not only support victims but also send a strong message to state sponsors of terror that their heinous acts will have consequences.

The time for action is now, Senator Cornyn. We demand that you #FundTheFund and #HoldTheSenateAccountable!

Maegan and Austin Copeland, survivors and activists for justice.