We are thrilled to share some significant news about one of our most important policy priorities. Yesterday, the United States Senate passed legislation that would expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) and compensate Americans made ill by their exposure to radiation.
In St. Louis, nuclear waste stored near Lambert International Airport seeped into Coldwater Creek in the 1960s. Many people who live near this creek believe the contamination is responsible for cancers and other illnesses. Cancer concerns have also been raised by people in St. Charles County, where uranium was processed and a large quarry became contaminated, resulting in a Superfund cleanup.
MCE’s Christen Commuso, who has visited D.C. frequently to advocate for the expansion of RECA, shared with the Associated Press that she has dealt with many health issues, including thyroid cancer, and has had to at times ration her care because it is so costly.
The White House indicated that President Biden will sign the legislation, saying: “The President believes we have a solemn obligation to address toxic exposure, especially among those who have been placed in harm’s way by the government’s actions.”
Thank you to everyone who has supported the expansion of RECA by sharing information and contacting their legislators! We share this good news with deep gratitude to each of you.