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Advocates fear compensation for radiation victims could end with defense bill deal on December 5, 2023 at 11:00 am Business News | The Hill
Advocates fear a bipartisan provision of the Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that expands compensation for victims of radiation poisoning may be a casualty of the conference process.
It’s already behind in its reach: In many cases, those who could have benefited from the expansion have limited time, or are already dead.
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), first passed three decades ago, compensates Americans who were exposed to radiation from atomic testing or uranium mining. The law covers people who were residents of Utah, Nevada and Arizona at the time of nuclear testing and World War II-era uranium mining. It is set to expire in May, after the Biden administration extended it for two years last summer.
However, it does not cover several states that were also on the front lines of such activity, including New Mexico, the site of the 1945 Trinity atomic bomb test, or Missouri, where nuclear waste from the Manhattan Project was stored in multiple parts of St. Louis.
A bipartisan amendment to the Senate version of the NDAA, which passed with a supermajority in August, would expand the law to cover Idaho, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Guam and Colorado, as well as extending it for a further 19 years.
The Senate amendment was not part of the House’s version of the NDAA, and amid what’s likely to be a broader battle over the bill’s final form, it’s not clear whether the amendment will make it into the conference bill.
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who co-sponsored the amendment with Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), in November vowed to block any version of the NDAA that does not include it.
“I’ve got my fingers crossed,” Hawley told The Hill on Thursday. His colleagues, he added, are “concerned about cost … to which my response is, we seem to have unlimited sums of money to pay defense contractors and give to foreign countries. Can we not make whole the people of this nation who have been poisoned by their own government?”
Hawley did not identify by name anyone who has raised cost concerns over the amendment, but the fiscally conservative nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget said in October that “Congress should … consider whether to move forward with this proposal, how it could be modified or scaled back, and – importantly – how it should be fully paid for.”
None of Hawley’s co-sponsors would commit to joining him in blocking the NDAA if the amendment is not included, but reaffirmed their support of including it in the final bill.
“Senator Schmitt will continue to have conversations with other members that remedy the consequences of the radiation exposure that occurred right in his own backyard and have had lasting health impacts on countless St. Louis residents,” Schmitt press secretary Will O’Grady told The Hill in an email. ”The Senator met with an advocacy group on Wednesday and will continue to push for a solution for those impacted by negligence of the federal government.”
Lujan’s office referred The Hill to a tweet sent Thursday by the New Mexico Democrat in which he said “all options are on the table” to ensure the amendment is signed into law. “We cannot turn a blind eye to those who sacrificed for our national security,” Lujan wrote.
Crapo’s office had not responded to The Hill as of this writing.
In the affected states, where residents have lobbied their members for years to extend and expand the compensation, the question is both time-sensitive and a matter of life and death. Maggie Billiman, a member of the Sawmill Chapter of the Navajo Nation, said that at the time of her father’s death from stomach cancer in 2001, neither of them was even aware of RECA.
Shortly before his death, Billiman’s father, Howard, a World War II-era Navajo “code talker,” asked her to research cancer treatments in hopes of finding easier ways of accessing care than his own experience.
“So that was put on me. … I just wanted to return and help my siblings [and] the whole reservation to go forward with not only the money but for RECA to be extended,” she said. “A lot of people don’t know about the bomb testing, the cancer risk.” Billiman’s family has an extended history of cancer, including her sister, who was recently diagnosed with bladder cancer.
The effect of the radiation “is genetic; I was probably born with it,” she said, noting, “I’d never done anything like drink or smoke. I stayed away from all that.”
“I’m just hoping they can extend it or do something because this has been [going on] a long time, and Native people didn’t even know they were exposed,” she told The Hill.
The stakes are also high for atomic veterans, those exposed to radiation as part of active duty.
Keith Kiefer, national commander of the National Association of Atomic Veterans (NAAV) and a veteran of the cleanup of Enewetak Atoll, described RECA as “one of the least bureaucratic programs I have seen in the government.” He added that atomic veterans could be forced to navigate the unfamiliar bureaucracy of Veterans Affairs care without RECA, which is administered by the Justice Department. Nuclear testing occurred on the atoll in the 1950s; cleanup took place from 1977-80.
Veterans exposed to radiation, he added, frequently suffer from cancers that make a full-time job difficult or impossible, making the RECA compensation that much more important.
Atomic veterans, he said, are an important part of illustrating the stakes of the fight, because while senators like Luján and Hawley are responding to specific needs of their constituents, atomic veterans may live anywhere.
The NAAV has also called for an expansion of RECA eligibility to include veterans affected by three cleanup sites: the Enewetak Atoll islands, a 1968 fire onboard a bomber carrying nuclear weapons over Greenland, and a 1966 bomber crash in Palomares, Spain. The amendment passed by the Senate does not include those veterans.
On a call with reporters Monday, Hawley said negotiations were ongoing but expressed frustration at what he said has been their emphasis on cost and offsets rather than a “moral imperative” to provide compensation.
“I think the idea that we need to come forward and show exactly why we even need this program to begin with, which I have to say has in the attitude of some of the negotiators, I think is misplaced and frankly a little offensive,” Hawley said. Despite this, he said, the proponents of the amendment had submitted potential budgetary offsets to the cost of the reauthorization and expansion. “We have done everything we have been asked to do,” he said.
Energy & Environment, Administration, Business, House, News, Senate, Technology, NDAA, radiation Advocates fear a bipartisan provision of the Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that expands compensation for victims of radiation poisoning may be a casualty of the conference process. It’s already behind in its reach: In many cases, those who could have benefited from the expansion have limited time, or are already dead. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act…
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The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.
Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.
Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.
Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.
In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.
Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.
These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.
As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.
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How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.
The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.
Economic Tremors
Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.
Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.
Community Fabric Under Strain
Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.
Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.
Cities at a Crossroads
As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.
Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.
Looking Ahead
As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.
What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.
As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.
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Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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