FREE Downwinder Application Workshops in Boise
We’re holding a Downwinder Application Workshop in Boise on May 1 & 2 (Friday & Saturday). Sessions will run both days from 9–11 AM and 1–3 PM, and will be held at the Idaho State Museum in Julia Davis Park.
To help with space, we’re asking folks to attend based on the last name of the person who became ill:
• A–F: Friday 9–11 AM
• G–L: Friday 1–3 PM
• M–S: Saturday 9–11 AM
• T–Z: Saturday 1–3 PM
That said, anyone is welcome to attend any session if needed. Hope to see you there!
Information about the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA):
RECA was established by Congress on October 5, 1990, and signed into law shortly after, providing compensation to individuals harmed by radiation from nuclear weapons tests and uranium mining.
Key Details About RECA:
Purpose: To provide an apology and monetary compensation to “downwinders” (those exposed to fallout from atmospheric testing) and uranium industry workers (miners, millers, and transporters) who developed specific cancers.
Recent Status: While the original act expired in June 2024, new legislation in 2025 significantly expanded and reauthorized RECA to include more workers and geographic areas, including the entire states of Idaho, Utah and New Mexico, with certain counties in Arizona and Nevada.
RECA, administered by the Department of Justice, provides qualifying Downwinders a one-time, lump sum payment of $100,000. If the individual has died, their survivors may apply for equal shares of the single payment.
Compensable Diseases:
Leukemia (other than chronic lymphocytic leukemia), multiple myeloma, lymphomas (other than Hodgkin’s disease); And primary cancers of the: thyroid, male or female breast, esophagus, stomach, pharynx, small intestine, pancreas, bile ducts, gall bladder, salivary gland, urinary bladder, brain, colon, ovary, lung or liver (except if cirrhosis or Hepatitis B is indicated).
The Downwinder must have been physically present in Idaho or other affected area for one of the following durations:
1. In the State of New Mexico for 1 year between September 24, 1944, and November 6, 1962;
2. In any affected area for 1 year between January 21, 1951, and November 6, 1962;
3. Or, in any affected area for the entire period from June 30, 1962, to July 31, 1962.
Presented by Tona Henderson, Director of Idaho Downwinders, and Shannon Carter with the County of Twin Falls.
Hosted by Idaho State Historical Society. Sponsored by Snake River Alliance.
Organized by Idaho Downwinders, Twin Falls County/Shannon Carter, Idaho State Historical Society, and Snake River Alliance.
Thanks to Senator Mike Crapo’s office for their assistance.
