Fighting for Justice, Health, and Recognition for Downwinders

Supporting individuals and families impacted by radiation exposure across affected regions.
Downwinders Alliance is dedicated to raising awareness, expanding compensation, and providing resources to individuals affected by nuclear testing and radioactive fallout. Our mission is to ensure that every impacted person is informed, supported, and heard.

Who We Are

Downwinders Alliance is a community-led organization committed to standing with individuals and families affected by radiation exposure.
For generations, people across impacted regions have faced serious health challenges without proper acknowledgment or support — and we exist to change that.

Our mission is to raise awareness, protect public health, and fight for fair and expanded RECA coverage
so more impacted individuals can receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

We work to ensure the stories, experiences, and voices of affected communities are preserved and respected.

We provide guidance, clarity, and support to those seeking answers or recognition. No one should feel alone in this fight.

We inform, advocate, and stand alongside every impacted individual and family — every step of the way.

Current Legislation & Eligibility

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was first passed by Congress in 1990 and later expanded in 2000 to include more individuals impacted by government-related radiation exposure. Under the current version of the law, thousands of people who lived in downwind communities or developed certain cancers may qualify for federal compensation.

For decades, Downwinders Alliance has been working to assist individuals and families who meet the requirements outlined in RECA. Our focus is on making the process easier to understand, raising awareness about eligibility, and helping more people gain access to the benefits they may be entitled to under existing legislation.

Under the current law, individuals may qualify if they were diagnosed with a covered cancer and lived for at least one year in specific parts of Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Idaho, or New Mexico during the nuclear testing period—from 1951 to 1962. Many families are still unaware that they qualify, and in some cases, compensation may also be available to survivors applying on behalf of loved ones who have passed away.

Downwinders Alliance is committed to helping impacted communities understand their rights, navigate the claims process, and stay informed as legislation evolves and new expansions are proposed.

What We Do

Educate communities on RECA legislation

Help individuals determine if they qualify for compensation

Share fallout maps and affected regions

Advocate for stronger policies and expanded coverage

Connect impacted families with guidance and resources

Preserve the history and voices of affected communities

Who IS Eligible?

Were You or a Loved One Exposed?

People who lived in affected regions during the nuclear testing era may qualify for federal compensation—even if they’ve never applied or were previously denied.

How We Help

Learn about eligibility

Understand RECA coverage

Get guidance on next steps

Connect with advocacy resources

Access accurate information and documentation support

Stay informed on policy updates and compensation changes

What You’ll Learn From the Downwinders Alliance Resource Center

FACT #1

The Hidden Impact of Radiation Exposure

Discover the truth about how decades of nuclear testing continue to affect the health, environment, and daily lives of people in impacted regions — and what that means for you and your loved ones today.

FACT #2

Your Rights Under the RECA Legislation

Learn the key details of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), including who qualifies, what compensation is available, and how to start your claim — even if you’ve been denied before.

FACT #3

How to Get the Support You
Deserve

Understand the simple steps to connect with advocacy experts, access resources, and receive personalized guidance every step of the way — because no one should face this fight
alone.

Want to Know If You’re Eligible for RECA Compensation?

Our Process

01

Check Eligibility

Start by answering a few simple questions to find out if you or a loved one may qualify for RECA compensation.

02

Get Personalized Support

Our team reviews your information and connects you with resources, guidance, and advocacy assistance.

03

Receive Compensation

We help ensure your claim is properly submitted so you can get the justice and support you deserve.

FAQS

What is the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA)?

RECA is a federal program that provides one-time compensation to people who developed certain illnesses after exposure to radiation from nuclear testing or uranium-related work.

Who qualifies for compensation under RECA?

Eligibility depends on where you lived or worked during the nuclear testing period, the illness diagnosed, and when exposure occurred.

Can family members apply on behalf of someone who has passed away?

Yes. Spouses, children, and certain relatives may apply for compensation if an eligible person is deceased.

What illnesses are covered by RECA?

Cancers such as leukemia, lung cancer, breast cancer, thyroid cancer, and other radiation-linked conditions may qualify for compensation.

Is the compensation tax-free?

Yes. RECA payments are non-taxable and issued as a one-time federal payment to approved applicants.

Find Out If You Qualify for

Compensation

Fill out the form to take the first step toward determining your eligibility. Many individuals and families affected by radiation exposure still don’t realize they may qualify under current federal guidelines.

At Downwinders Alliance, we are committed to helping you understand your options and navigate the process with confidence. Our role is to provide clear guidance, answer your questions, and make sure you’re not left out of the compensation you may be entitled to.

Your health, history, and peace of mind matter — and support is available.

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