Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) & Environmental Justice

Background

For years, Congressman Bell has heard from St. Louisans who endured decades of health crises, economic hardship, and government neglect after radioactive contamination from the Manhattan Project upended their lives. While no legislation can fully undo the damage that has been done, expanding RECA is a significant step toward accountability and justice. Nothing can fully right this wrong, but this effort helps tip the scales toward those who have waited far too long for recognition and relief.

Legislative Actions

• Introduced the St. Louis RECA Readjustment Act to ensure the 63106 and 63107 zipcodes are included in the RECA program.
• Co-led the Radiation Exposure Reauthorization Act to expand list of compensable diseases and increase RECA benefits from $50,000 to $150,000 in addition to medical expenses
• Led a letter to Administration officials urging them to increase their efforts to expedite the clean up at West Lake Landfill.