Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB4403

Introduced
5/23/24  

Caption

Downwinders Act

Impact

Should SB4403 be enacted, it would lead to significant changes in how radiation exposure cases are handled under federal law. By extending the compensation eligibility period from two years to eight years, it aims to provide more comprehensive support to individuals who may have developed health issues as a result of their exposure. Additionally, this bill highlights specific counties in New Mexico and relevant zip codes in Missouri as areas where individuals may have been impacted, which could lead to increased claims and therefore more attention to long-term health care needs associated with radiation exposure.

Summary

SB4403, known as the Downwinders Act, seeks to amend the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act by redefining the 'affected area' and extending the compensation period for those exposed to radiation. Specifically, it allows claims to be filed for individuals who were physically present in specified locations during critical dates, primarily associated with historical nuclear testing activities. This redefinition aims to widen the scope of individuals eligible for compensation, acknowledging the long-term health effects of radiation exposure on affected populations.

Contention

Opposition to the bill may arise concerning the verification of claims and the potential for fraudulent submissions. Critics may voice concerns over the feasibility of accurately determining physical presence in the affected areas, especially given the historical context and the time elapsed since the events in question. Moreover, the burden of proof required for compensation claims may be contentious, as it necessitates that individuals provide detailed medical documentation substantiating their claims, which some may argue is overly burdensome. This criticism underscores the ongoing debate about how best to support those affected by historical injustices related to radiation exposure.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB1362

Downwinders Parity Act of 2025

US HB4754

Downwinders Parity Act of 2023

US SB463

Downwinders Parity Act of 2023

US HB1751

Downwinders Parity Act of 2023

US HB8574

340B ACCESS Act 340B Affording Care for Communities and Ensuring a Strong Safety-net Act

US SB4470

21st Century SKILLS Act 21st Century Skills are Key to Individuals' Life-Long Success Act

US SB243

Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act Radiation Exposure Compensation Act Amendments of 2025 Radiation Exposure Compensation Expansion Act

US HB8790

Fix Our Forests Act

US SB2121

SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025

US SB4397

Trauma-Informed Schools Act of 2024

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