Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions
Floor Speech
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Mr. KING. Mr. President, today I wish to voice my support for the Enewetak Atoll Cleanup Veterans Registry and Study Act of 2016. I am joined by my esteemed colleague from Maine, Susan Collins, in introducing this initiative, which will help to combat a very important issue facing the servicemen and women stationed at the Enewetak Atoll between 1977 and 1980. These veterans assisted in a radiation cleanup mission that may have exposed them to harmful nuclear waste, and may be causing them health problems to this day.
Between 1948 and 1958, the United States used the Enewetak Atoll for nuclear bomb testing. In 1977, after a total of 43 nuclear tests, the United States engaged in a 3-year cleanup mission, costing $100 million and requiring a task force of nearly 1,000 servicemembers. However, despite the clearly dangerous nature of handling radioactive material, there is no registry or health study for those who served at Enewetak during that time.
This bill would require the Secretary of the VA to establish a registry of veterans who served as part of the cleanup of Enewetak Atoll, and have subsequently experienced health issues that may have resulted from exposure to radiation. In addition, the bill would direct the VA to commission an independent study investigating any linkages between those who were exposed to the radiation and subsequent health problems. It would allow for the gathering of targeted data for a better assessment of exposure, and would help determine whether these veterans should be granted the presumption of service-connection disabilities.
Throughout our Nation's history, our veterans have put themselves in harm's way to ensure our freedom time and time again. Their unwavering patriotism and courage demonstrate the fortitude of American character and our Nation's commitment to democracy worldwide. In response, we must do everything we can to follow through on our responsibility to provide for our veterans, and the brave men and women who served at Enewetak Atoll are no exception to this solemn duty. This bill demonstrates our commitment to honoring and respecting our Nation's heroes, past and present, and I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation. ______
By Mr. BARRASSO (for himself and Mr. McCain):
S. 3234. A bill to amend the Native American Business Development, Trade Promotion, and Tourism Act of 2000, the Buy Indian Act, the Indian Trader Act, and the Native American Programs Act of 1974 to provide industry and economic development opportunities to Indian communities; to the Committee on Indian Affairs.
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