Former uranium workers, individuals who lived or worked downwind of certain atmospheric nuclear testing sites, and people who worked as onsite participants may be eligible for medical screening.
You can file a claim under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) if you:
Have a radiation-exposure illness that is covered by RECA
Worked as a uranium miller, miner, ore transporter, core driller, or remediation worker for at least one year during 1942-1990
Worked in one of these states during that time (even if you don't live there now):
Arizona
Colorado
Idaho
New Mexico
North Dakota
Oregon
South Dakota
Texas
Utah
Washington
Wyoming
You may also qualify for RECA if you are a “downwinder." Downwinders are individuals who developed certain cancers after presumed exposure to radiation released during the atmospheric nuclear tests conducted within the United States. A qualifying Downwinder must meet two essential criteria:
The Downwinder must have been physically present in an affected area for one of the following durations: In the State of New Mexico for 1 year between September 24, 1944, and November 6, 1962; In any affected area for 1 year between January 21, 1951, and November 6, 1962; or In any affected area for the entire period from June 30, 1962, to July 31, 1962.
The affected areas under RECA’s downwind provisions include the states of Idaho, New Mexico, and Utah, as well as the following counties: In the state of Arizona, the counties of Coconino, Yavapai, Navajo, Apache, Gila & Mohave; in the state of Nevada, the counties of White Pine, Nye, Lander, Lincoln, Eureka, and Clark County townships 13 through 16 at ranges 63 through 71.
