Senate Passes Bill to Expand Radiation Exposure Compensation

The bipartisan bill, aimed at aiding Americans affected by government radiation exposure, faces uncertainty in the House despite strong Senate support.

The Senate approved a bill to renew and expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, initially established over three decades ago, to include more affected individuals.
The legislation, which passed with a 69-30 vote, seeks to provide compensation to Americans exposed to radiation through government activities, with an estimated cost of $50 billion.
Advocates for the bill, including cancer survivors and families of victims, have highlighted the long-term health impacts of radiation exposure in areas like Missouri and New Mexico.
The bill's future in the House remains uncertain, with President Joe Biden indicating readiness to sign the legislation if it passes.
Concerns over the bill's cost have been raised, but supporters emphasize the government's responsibility to address the consequences of its nuclear activities.