July 2, 2026

Kearns, Utah — July 9, 2026

HEAL Utah and LDS Earth Stewardship invite community members, families, and advocates to attend a free public information session on the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) and its recent expansion to include all of Utah in the federal definition of Downwinders.

The event will take place on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kearns Library, 4275 W 5345 S, Kearns, UT 84118.

For decades, Utah communities have lived with the legacy of radiation exposure resulting from nuclear weapons testing, uranium mining, milling, and other activities associated with the nuclear fuel cycle. The recent expansion of RECA represents a significant step toward recognizing the harms experienced by individuals and families across the state and providing compensation for those who may qualify.

The event will begin with a brief overview of the history of RECA and the recent changes to the program. Attendees will then hear from a community member who recently completed the RECA application process and who will share their firsthand experience navigating the program. The evening will conclude with practical information and resources to help individuals determine whether they or their loved ones may be eligible for compensation and how to begin the application process.

In addition to providing information about RECA, HEAL Utah will discuss ongoing advocacy efforts to ensure that the lessons learned from past radiation exposures are not forgotten as policymakers and industry leaders pursue a new generation of nuclear development throughout Utah and the West.

“Many Utah families have spent decades waiting for recognition of the harms caused by radiation exposure,” said Carmen Valdez of HEAL Utah. “The expansion of RECA is an important milestone, but compensation alone cannot erase the impacts these communities have endured, especially with the program set to expire, again, in December 2027. As Utah considers new nuclear projects, we have a responsibility to learn from our history, listen to impacted communities, and ensure that public health, transparency, and accountability remain at the center of every decision.

Mike Maxwell of LDS Earth Stewardship, a longtime advocate, said “The people of Utah were knowingly misled by their government on the risks of nuclear technology. RECA does the right thing in supporting families who have experienced so much tragedy. Let this be a cautionary tale about how we need to ‘trust but verify’ what government and commercial interests tell us about the risks of nuclear technology today.”

Mary Dickson, a longtime advocate and now a Downwinder said “I’ve found so many people who don’t know they are eligible for compensation. So many Utahns qualify or know a friend or relative who does. These free information seminars show you who qualifies, where to get required documentation of presence and diagnosis, and where to find resources you need to apply for yourself, a deceased parent or a deceased spouse. As someone who’s been through the process I can tell you it’s not as difficult as you might think.”

The expansion of RECA serves as a reminder that the impacts of radiation exposure can last for generations. As Utah experiences a renewed push for nuclear energy and related industries, it is critical that we acknowledge these past harms, support affected families, and ensure that future decisions are guided by transparency, accountability, and the protection of public health.”

The event is free and open to the public. Community members who believe they may qualify for RECA benefits, have family members affected by radiation-related illnesses, or want to learn more about Utah’s nuclear legacy are encouraged to attend.

Event Details – go to www.healutah.org/events for more information

What: Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) Information Event
Date: July 9, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Kearns Library, 4275 W 5345 S, Kearns, UT 84118

Resources:
https://www.justice.gov/civil/reca
https://www.healutah.org/
https://www.healutah.org/ourwork/toxics-nuclear/
https://www.healutah.org/reca/
https://www.healutah.org/events/
https://www.healutah.org/events1/radiation-exposure-compensation-act-information-sessions/

About HEAL Utah:
HEAL Utah is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting public health and the environment by promoting clean energy solutions and advocating for transparency and accountability regarding nuclear and radioactive waste issues affecting Utah communities.