RECA Expansion 2025: Are You Eligible for Radiation Exposure Compensation? A Lawyer Explains the New Rules
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) has been a vital lifeline for individuals and families affected by radiation exposure from U.S. nuclear weapons testing and uranium mining. In July 2025, a significant expansion of RECA was enacted, offering new hope and opportunities for compensation to those previously excluded. If you believe you or a loved one has suffered from radiation-related illnesses, understanding the RECA Expansion 2025 and its new rules is crucial.
What is RECA?
Originally established in 1990, RECA provides financial compensation to individuals who have developed specific diseases after being exposed to radiation from U.S. nuclear weapons programs. This includes:
- Downwinders: Individuals who lived in areas affected by nuclear testing fallout.
- Uranium Workers: Those involved in uranium mining, milling, and transportation.
- Onsite Participants: People who participated in onsite atmospheric nuclear weapons tests.
RECA was designed as a non-adversarial alternative to litigation, meaning claimants don’t have to prove causation, but rather, they qualify for compensation by showing they have a diagnosis of a compensable disease after living or working in a designated location for a specific period.
RECA Expansion 2025: A Game Changer
The RECA Expansion 2025, enacted as part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” on July 4, 2025, brings several key changes:
- New Eligible Groups: The expansion includes individuals who worked as uranium millers or miners, core drillers, or ore transporters between 1971 and 1990. It also provides compensation eligibility for individuals exposed to Manhattan Project waste.
- Expanded Geographic Coverage: The expansion adds new “downwinder” areas, including the entire states of New Mexico, Utah, and Idaho, and Mohave County in Arizona. It also includes specific areas in Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alaska affected by Manhattan Project waste.
- Increased Compensation Amounts: Many claimants are now eligible for up to $100,000 in compensation benefits.
- Extended Claim Filing Period: The deadline to file a claim has been extended to December 31, 2027.
Who is Eligible Under the RECA Expansion 2025?
To qualify for compensation under the RECA Expansion 2025, you must meet specific criteria depending on the category you fall under:
1. Downwinders
- Geographic Requirements: You must have lived in a designated “downwind” area for at least two years (or in some cases, one year) after a specific date. The newly included areas are New Mexico, Utah, Idaho, and Mohave County, Arizona.
- Disease Requirements: You must have been diagnosed with a specified compensable disease, such as leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or certain cancers (thyroid, breast, lung, etc.).
2. Uranium Workers
- Occupational Requirements: You must have worked as a uranium miner, miller, core driller, or ore transporter between 1942 and 1990.
- Disease Requirements: You must have developed lung cancer, nonmalignant respiratory disease, renal cancer, or chronic renal disease.
3. Manhattan Project Waste Exposure
- Geographic and Time Requirements: You must have lived, worked, or attended school for at least two years after January 1, 1949, in one of the affected ZIP codes in Missouri, Tennessee, Alaska, or Kentucky.
- Disease Requirements: You must have developed a specified disease (various cancers) at least two years after the initial exposure.
Specific ZIP codes covered for Manhattan Project Waste Exposure:
- Missouri: 63031, 63033, 63034, 63042, 63043, 63044, 63045, 63074, 63102, 63114, 63121, 63134, 63135, 63138, 63140, 63145, 63147, 63304, 63341, 63367, 63368
- Tennessee: 37716, 37840, 37719, 37748, 37763, 37828, 37769, 37710, 37845, 37887, 37829, 37854, 37830, 37831
- Alaska: 99546, 99547
- Kentucky: 42001, 42003, 42086
Compensation Amounts
The compensation amounts vary based on the category of claimant:
- Downwinders, Uranium Workers, and Onsite Participants: Generally receive a one-time, lump-sum payment of $100,000.
- Manhattan Project Waste Exposure: Living individuals may be eligible for a base payment of $50,000, or more depending on eligible expenses, and additional reimbursement for documented out-of-pocket medical costs not covered by insurance or government programs.
- Deceased Individuals: If an individual who qualifies for compensation is deceased, a surviving spouse may receive $25,000. If there is no surviving spouse, the surviving children may receive equal shares of the $25,000 payment.
How to File a Claim
- Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documents, including proof of residency/employment/school attendance, medical records, and any other evidence supporting your claim.
- Complete the Claim Form: Obtain the claim form from the Department of Justice (DOJ) website. An online claim filing portal is projected to be operational by December 2025.
- Submit the Claim: Submit the completed claim form and supporting documentation to the DOJ. The deadline for filing claims is December 31, 2027.
The Role of a Lawyer
Navigating the RECA claims process can be complex. An experienced attorney can help you:
- Determine your eligibility under the RECA Expansion 2025.
- Gather the necessary documentation to support your claim.
- Complete and submit the claim form accurately and on time.
- Represent you in any disputes or appeals.
Don’t Delay, Act Now
The RECA Expansion 2025 offers a crucial opportunity for individuals and families affected by radiation exposure to receive the compensation they deserve. With the program set to expire on December 31, 2027, it’s essential to act quickly. Contact an attorney today to discuss your case and ensure your rights are protected.