RECA Expansion Now In Effect

In July 2025, Congress reauthorized and expanded the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). This new law broadens eligibility for individuals and families affected by nuclear testing fallout across the American Southwest.

  • Close-up of the U.S. Capitol building's rounded facade with classical columns, stained glass windows, and an American flag flying in front.

    July 4th, 2025 | The updated RECA law:

    √ Extends program eligibility through December 31, 2027.

    √ Expands geographic coverage to include Utah, Idaho, New Mexico, Northern Arizona, and parts of Nevada.

    √ Continues the $100,000 tax-free federal payment for qualifying claimants.

    √ Allows surviving family members to file on behalf of deceased loved ones.

    These updates acknowledge decades of advocacy by families and community organizations throughout the Southwest.

  • Map with a red pushpin on a location, overlaid with the text "Expanded Areas Now covered" in bold black and smaller black font.

    Where the Expansion Applies

    To qualify as a Downwinder under the new RECA law, you must have lived for at least one year in one of the following areas during the nuclear testing years (1944–1962):

    Arizona — Apache, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, Yavapai


    Nevada — Eureka, Lander, Lincoln, Nye, White Pine, and portions of Clark County


    New Mexico — Entire state


    Utah— Entire state now recognized

    Idaho — Entire state now recognized

  • A person typing on a laptop with a stethoscope placed on the desk in front of the laptop.

    Cancers Recognized Under the Expanded RECA Program

    The following cancers and leukemias are covered under the current RECA law:

    Leukemias

    Leukemia (except chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL])

    Other Cancers

    Lymphomas (excluding Hodgkin’s disease)

    Multiple Myeloma

    Thyroid

    Breast (male and female)

    Esophagus

    Stomach

    Pharynx

    Small Intestine

    Pancreas

    Bile Ducts

    Gall Bladder

    Salivary Gland

    Urinary Bladder

    Brain

    Colon

    Ovary

    Liver (except when cirrhosis or Hepatitis B is present)

    Lung

    Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Radiation Exposure Compensation Program (Updated July 2025).

What This Means for Families

With the RECA expansion now in effect, thousands of additional Downwinders and their families may qualify for compensation.
If you or a loved one lived in an affected area and later developed cancer, you could be entitled to a $100,000 federal payment.

We can help you find out if you’re eligible and guide you through the next steps personally.

Deadline Reminder

All RECA claims must be submitted no later than December 31, 2027. Starting now gives you time to avoid last-minute delays and to ensure your eligibility review is completed in time.

Check Your Eligibility Now!