Hawley optimistic at radiation compensation deal prospects

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) expressed optimism Thursday that lawmakers would soon reach a deal to extend radiation compensation for victims of U.S. nuclear weapons testing. 

Hawley told reporters he and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) were “getting close” to a deal.

“We’ve made very significant progress, and I’m encouraged by the direction it’s heading in,” Hawley said. “I think the sticking points are relatively few.”

However, another source familiar with the discussions disputed this characterization, saying the same differences between the House and Senate versions of the legislation persist. 

For decades, victims of government nuclear testing have been able to apply for compensation. 

However, victims who are not currently receiving benefits cannot newly apply since the program lapsed in June. There were efforts to reauthorize it, but they were derailed after lawmakers couldn’t agree on whether to pass a simple reauthorization or to extend the program to additional victims. 

Hawley was one of the leading voices calling for an expansion. In a Senate floor speech Thursday, he said, “We will not stop fighting, we will not stop working, until every nuclear radiation victim, who has given their life and health for the support of this nation is thanked and compensated.”