Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act

S. 243 would reauthorize and expand existing federal programs that compensate individuals who were exposed to radiation during nuclear weapons testing or uranium mining work and subsequently developed medical conditions like cancer. The bill would extend the time periods during which exposure qualifies for compensation, add new eligible mining occupations such as core drilling, increase compensation amounts for qualifying individuals, and allow people with combined work histories in uranium mining to receive benefits. It would also extend the deadline for filing claims by five years after the bill's enactment.

The legislation would expand eligibility to include individuals in specified areas of Alaska, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee who were exposed to radioactive waste from the Manhattan Project and developed certain cancers. Additionally, the bill would broaden an existing compensation program for former Department of Energy employees and establish a grant program for universities to study the health effects of uranium mining and milling. The bill also directs the Government Accountability Office to study unmet medical coverage needs for people exposed to radiation from federal atmospheric nuclear tests.

Currently in committee, this bill would provide expanded financial assistance and recognition to populations affected by historical federal nuclear activities if enacted.