John,

Countless Americans are quietly bearing the catastrophic health impacts of radiation exposure from nuclear weapons testing and uranium mining. These are our veterans, Indigenous communities, and everyday individuals known as "downwinders," and their lives have been irreparably damaged by the unseen terror of radiation.

For decades, these communities have lived with the consequences -- inescapable health conditions such as cancer, environmental harm, and relentless fear, their lives distorted by unseen radioactive toxins. The ripple effect is devastating: mounting medical bills, pain, suffering, and premature death, leaving behind traumatized and financially burdened families.

While the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was signed into law in 1990 as a means to compensate individuals who were exposed to radiation from nuclear testing during the Cold War era, it’s set to expire and despite its positive impact, it has been limited in scope, leaving countless deserving victims without compensation and support.

Right now, amendments to the RECA are being considered in Congress. If passed, these changes would expand access to compensation for victims of radiation exposure, fill in the coverage gaps, and give these neglected communities a fighting chance. But this bill is teetering on the edge of oblivion, that’s why we need to act now to show widespread public support.

Show up for justice: Demand your members of Congress co-sponsor and pass critically needed amendments to the RECA today.

One of the biggest issues right now is that the medical conditions eligible for compensation under RECA are limited to certain types of cancer and other specified illnesses even though radiation exposure can lead to various health issues beyond the ones currently eligible. This leaves many victims without the recognition they deserve and without financial aid for their suffering.

The victims of radiation exposure have waited far too long for justice and recognition of their struggles. As time passes, many affected individuals are aging, and their medical needs are becoming increasingly urgent. The expansion of RECA is not only an issue of fairness but also a matter of basic human rights and compassion.

The invisible terror of radiation doesn't discriminate. It could have been any of us. We must ensure that all impacted communities receive the compensation they need, the recognition they deserve, and the assurance that their suffering has not been in vain.

Demand your members of Congress co-sponsor and pass the critically needed amendments to the RECA today.

Thank you for standing up for the victims of radiation exposure and working to build a more compassionate and just society.

- Amanda

Amanda Ford, Director
Democracy for America
Advocacy Fund