Parity for Pacific Radiation Survivors Act

Key Points

• This bill would allow people living in Guam to apply for government compensation if they developed certain illnesses after being exposed to radiation. For decades, Guam was left out of the law that helps 'downwinders' of nuclear tests, even though the island was affected by radioactive fallout from Pacific Ocean testing.
• To be eligible, a person must have lived in Guam for at least one year between July 1, 1946, and November 6, 1992. The bill also expands coverage to include military members who helped clean up radioactive waste at Enewetak Atoll between May 1977 and May 1980.
• The proposal adds kidney disease to the list of health conditions the government will pay for. Currently, the law covers various cancers and lung diseases, but this change recognizes that radiation exposure can also lead to long-term kidney failure and other renal problems.
• This action aims to provide 'parity,' or fairness, for Pacific Islanders and veterans who have suffered from high rates of cancer but were previously ineligible for the same federal help provided to residents of states like Nevada, Utah, and Arizona.

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