RECA

Between 1945 and 1992, the United States conducted above-ground nuclear explosive testing in the Western United States and on atolls in the Pacific Ocean. Much of the radiation from this testing spread throughout the West, especially in Idaho, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada.. The effect of downwind radiation and of uranium mining were poorly understood at the time.

In 1990, Congress enacted the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to provide recompense to U.S. citizens living in areas irradiated by nuclear testing or who mined uranium for this test. Idaho victims were initially left out of the program. For decades, I have worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Idahoans receive their just dues.

In 2025, Congress passed legislation that included an expansion of RECA to the state of Idaho. I am grateful for the efforts of Idaho’s Downwinder community and others for helping me get this vital provision included. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is working to process claims from Idahoans and citizens from other eligible western states under RECA. If you believe you may be eligible for compensation under RECA, please review DOJ’s webpage for more information:

https://www.justice.gov/civil/reca

If you have questions or concerns related to your claims or RECA in general, please contact one of my regional offices.