The U.S. House of Representatives missed the deadline to extend the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, leaving former uranium miners, many suffering from cancer, without critical aid.
Arlyssa D. Becenti reports for the Arizona Republic.
In short:
- Marie Kirlie and other Navajo uranium workers have fought for expanded compensation due to hazardous working conditions.
- The House failed to vote on extending the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act before its expiration, heightening anxiety and worry among affected workers.
- A bipartisan bill to extend the act for six years passed the Senate but was withdrawn from the House vote by Speaker Mike Johnson, leaving many workers without needed support.
Key quote:
"The legacy of uranium mining on Navajo land is one of sickness, suffering, and environmental devastation."
— Navajo Nation president, Buu Nygren
Why this matters:
This failure to act leaves many former uranium workers and their families without compensation for health issues related to radiation exposure. Read more: Years after mining stops, uranium's legacy lingers on Native land.
