Atomic Civilians Recognition and Compensation Act

# Atomic Civilians Recognition and Compensation Act (HR 6901) **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would establish a federal program to recognize and compensate civilians who were harmed by atomic testing or nuclear weapons production during the Cold War era. While specific compensation details aren't provided in the available information, the bill's title suggests it aims to acknowledge the government's responsibility for radiation exposure and related health effects experienced by ordinary citizens. **Who It Affects:** The legislation would primarily benefit civilians who lived downwind from Nevada nuclear test sites, workers at nuclear weapons production facilities, and potentially their families. These populations have long sought official acknowledgment and financial compensation for illnesses and deaths believed to be linked to radiation exposure from government nuclear activities between roughly the 1940s-1970s. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full floor vote in the House.

It was sponsored by Representative Jill Tokuda (D-HI), reflecting ongoing concern about nuclear testing's impact on communities, including those in Hawaii and the Pacific region. The bill would require congressional action to become law.