Missouri lawmakers and advocates are fighting against a proposed renewal of the nuclear compensation program that excludes their state, potentially leaving victims without aid.
Allison Kite reports for The Missouri Independent.
In short:
- U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson plans to renew the nuclear compensation program for two years, excluding Missouri and other states seeking inclusion.
- Missouri advocates feel betrayed, citing long-term exposure to radioactive waste from nuclear bomb production.
- Senators Josh Hawley and Representatives Ann Wagner and Cori Bush vow to block any bill that doesn't include Missouri.
Key quote:
“I cannot believe how emotionally manipulated we feel that Speaker Johnson would sit back and allow sick and dying community members to beg him for a meeting for months — then to spend (an) hour and a half with staff only to have the door slammed in our faces!”
— Dawn Chapman, co-founder of Just Moms STL
Why this matters:
Missourians have suffered from radioactive contamination for decades, leading to elevated cancer rates. For many in Missouri, this issue isn't just about financial support; it's about justice and recognition of their suffering. The lack of inclusion means that affected individuals and their families might struggle to cover medical costs and other expenses associated with illnesses linked to nuclear exposure.
