The Nuclear Workers Advocacy Program operates within the Community & Safety Oversight Section (CSOS) as part of the Radiation Control Bureau (RCB) in Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED).
This program assists New Mexico residents to apply for federal funding and health benefits available to nuclear workers and individuals impacted by the historical use and testing of nuclear energy and weapons.
Supported Federal Compensation Programs
The Bureau provides guidance and application support for two primary federal compensation programs as described below.
Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA)
RECA provides a one-time $100,000 tax free payoutto eligible individuals.
Eligibility: Covers New Mexico “downwinders” affected by historic nuclear testing (including the 1945 Trinity Test) as well as uranium miners, millers, core drillers, ore transporters and remediation miner workers through December 31, 1990.
Filing Deadline: Claims under the current expanded framework must be submitted by December 31, 2027. NMED provides free filing assistance now.
Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA)
The EEOICPA is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), this program provides medical benefits and lump-sum compensation for illnesses linked to occupational exposure, including radiation-induced cancer, chronic silicosis, and toxic substance exposure.
Uranium Worker Compensation: Qualifying uranium workers can receive up to $50,000 in additional compensation alongside dedicated medical care.
NMED charges 0.5% of the compensation granted for the first filing and 5% if the application is rejected and requires a resubmission.
⚠️ Consumer Protection Warning
The New Mexico Attorney General’s Office warns all applicants to stay vigilant against predatory scams and unneeded third-party services.
Contact Information
For assistance with eligibility screening or filing a federal compensation claim, please contact GinaGrimes within the Community & Safety Oversight Section (CSOS) of the NMED Radiation Control Bureau.
Gina Grimes Email: gina.grimes@env.nm.gov
Work Phone: (505) 231-0052