Johnson Faces Criticism Over Stalled Radiation Compensation Bill

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is facing backlash from advocates and lawmakers for delaying the Senate-approved expansion of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). The expanded bill aims to cover more Americans exposed to radiation and increase the compensation amount.

Advocates who met with Johnson’s staff felt pressured to accept a less comprehensive version of the bill. One advocate told The Hill, “It felt like their hope was that you all would want an extension at some point and that would be their out.”
The Senate passed the expanded RECA in March with overwhelming support. The new version aims to broaden eligibility, increase payments, and extend the program for six years. However, this version would significantly increase spending, adding $50 billion to $60 billion, according to The Hill.

The current RECA benefits expired on June 10. Although a vote on a slimmed-down version was scheduled four days before the expiration, it was pulled back without explanation. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), a co-sponsor of the Senate bill, criticized Johnson for not bringing the expanded version to a vote. “I don’t think [Johnson] had the votes,” Hawley told The Hill.

Hawley remains vocal about the need for the expanded bill, which would benefit Missourians exposed to radiation during World War II-era nuclear testing. The Department of Justice calls RECA an apology fund for those who developed illnesses from working in the uranium industry.

“Many ‘downwind’ communities are excluded from compensation. The expansion bill would include thousands of New Mexicans, as well as residents of Idaho, Montana, Colorado, and Guam,” explained a Source NM article. The bill also acknowledges communities affected by nuclear waste in Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alaska.

Originally enacted in 1990 and championed by the late Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT), RECA has provided compensation to many affected by radiation exposure. However, advocates argue that the expanded bill is crucial to address the ongoing health issues faced by those excluded from the original act. The delay in passing the expanded version has left many frustrated and seeking answers.