Press Releases
April 26, 2010
Guam Included in RECA Amendments Act of 2010
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo today announced the introduction of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) Amendments Act of 2010 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Congresswoman Bordallo was one of eight original co-sponsors of the bill, which was introduced by Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico. Senator Tom Udall of New Mexico introduced identical companion legislation in the Senate yesterday as well.
The RECA Amendments Act of 2010 extends eligibility for compensation to those exposed to radiation to previously uncovered areas including Guam and makes all claimants eligible for an equal amount of damages ($150,000) regardless of their occupation. The dates covered run from June 30, 1946 to August 19, 1958, and from April 25, 1962 to November 5, 1962.
“The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) Amendments Act of 2010 will amend the RECA compensation program to expand the program to include geographic areas that were not part of the original legislation,” Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo said today. “Many people in the designated areas have been affected by nuclear testing, including downwinders on Guam. This bill is a coordinated and concerted effort by Members of Congress representing possible nuclear testing victims. I would like to thank Congressman Luján and Senator Udall for their leadership in introducing this legislation. I would also like to commend Mr. Robert Celestial for his many years of advocacy on behalf of the Pacific Association of Radiation Survivors.”
Mr. Robert Celestial, President of the Pacific Association of Radiation Survivors said, "On behalf of the Pacific Association of Radiation Survivors, I would like to thank Congressman Ben Ray Luján, Senator Tom Udall and Congresswoman Bordallo for their efforts in moving this legislation forward. Hopefully we can get the legislation passed as it will be beneficial for radiation survivors from Guam and across the nation."