Dear Friends,

For generations, New Mexicans suffered the devastating health consequences of our nation's nuclear program. From uranium miners who worked in dangerous conditions without protection to families unknowingly exposed to the radiation falling from the sky when the US exploded the very first atomic bomb.  

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) recognized the importance of compensating victims exposed to harmful radiation levels during the Nation’s nuclear weapons testing program. However, RECA left out New Mexican downwinders and many uranium workers—even though they lived, worked, and breathed in the shadows of that same radiation for which others received compensation.

During my first year in Congress, I introduced the bipartisan RECA Amendments Act alongside Senator Lujan. For years, our New Mexico Congressional delegation fought tirelessly alongside advocates and affected families across this country to expand and extend RECA to finally deliver the justice our communities deserve.

Thanks to the pressure from our communities and your unwavering advocacy, RECA expansion is now law and New Mexico downwinders and post ‘71 uranium workers are eligible for compensation. 

Now, it's time to do the work so every affected New Mexican gets the compensation they deserve. 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW IF YOU WERE AFFECTED

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has not yet released guidance on applying for the newly expanded Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. DOJ encourages claimants to wait to file a claim until additional guidance is finalized. 

New claims must be made before December 31, 2027.  

We’ve heard that people are going door-to-door in RECA-impacted communities offering to help those affected file a claim - potentially for a fee. We know there are potential scammers out there, so please be careful.  As soon as guidance is available and we know what is required to file for compensation, we will let you know. Please beware of any potential scams, especially those that ask you to share your personal information.

We’ll let you know as soon as DOJ guidance is ready.