S.243 - Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.243, the Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act, aims to extend and expand compensation for individuals affected by radiation exposure due to government activities. This includes those impacted by Manhattan Project waste, uranium mining, and atmospheric nuclear testing. The bill seeks to broaden eligibility criteria, increase compensation amounts, and extend the claim filing period.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to increased financial and medical benefits for a larger pool of individuals and their families who have suffered from radiation-related illnesses. It also mandates a GAO study on unmet medical needs and establishes a grant program for epidemiological research on uranium mining impacts. The bill also expands the use of affidavits to help substantiate claims.
Potential Benefits
- Increased compensation for affected individuals and their families.
- Expanded eligibility criteria to include more affected areas and diseases.
- Extension of the claim filing period, allowing more time for individuals to apply.
- Establishment of a grant program for research on the epidemiological impacts of uranium mining.
- Improved access to compensation through the acceptance of affidavits as evidence.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending on compensation, potentially impacting the federal budget.
- Potential for fraudulent claims due to the expanded use of affidavits.
- Complexity in determining eligibility, leading to administrative challenges.
- The bill may not fully address all the health needs of affected individuals.
- Possible delays in claim processing due to the increased volume of applications.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" by providing compensation and healthcare to citizens harmed by government activities. It also relates to Congress's power to regulate activities related to national defense and atomic energy, as implied by Article I, Section 8. The Fifth Amendment's guarantee of due process is relevant to the fair adjudication of claims under the Act.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).