Senator Hawley celebrated the increase in compensation from $50-$75k to $100k.
One of the provisions of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” signed into law on July 4th, increases financial compensation for Americans exposed to nuclear studies until 2028. The radiation exposure compensation program, which was first enacted in 1990, was canceled in 2023. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) had required the federal government to provide financial aid and medical screening for those living around and downwind of U.S. nuclear testing facilities, including the Manhattan Project in New Mexico. Though many of those exposed nuclear tests ended long ago, the local soil continues to be contaminated, impacting nearby residents with a variety of health issues.
Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri first proposed a financial increase to this program last year, though it did not pass in the House. Last week, Senator Hawley celebrated the inclusion of this provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which increases annual radiation compensation from $50,000 and $75,000 to $100,000. And while the massive bill itself did not receive bipartisan support, the RECA provision did.
“To all the radiation survivors and nuclear veterans across the country: WE DID IT,” Senator Hawley stated on social media. “We have prevailed. Your country thanks you and honors your sacrifice.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Senators and Representatives as they introduce and promote legislation to address issues facing Americans.
- For wisdom for President Trump, House Speaker Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader Thune as they collaborate on legislative priorities.
Sources: Roll Call, Fox News
