Families exposed to radiation from U.S. nuclear tests are urging Congress to pass a stalled bill that would expand compensation and health care.
Haylee May reports for Colorado Public Radio.
In short:
- The Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act (RECA) would extend compensation to those exposed to radiation, including workers and families in more states.
- The bill passed the Senate but has stalled in the House, leaving many without health care for radiation-related illnesses.
- Advocates stress the urgency of reauthorizing RECA as communities continue to suffer the effects of radiation exposure.
Key quote:
“They came to work for a program which the United States deemed essential for our national security. You gave your lives, you gave your bodies, you gave your families to the United States security, and we have left you without the support you deserve. Shameful.”
— Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández
Why this matters:
The U.S. nuclear weapons program exposed thousands to radiation, and many still struggle with related illnesses decades later. Renewing RECA would ensure continued access to care and compensation for these affected communities.
