New Mexico Expands Radiation Exposure Compensation

Residents diagnosed with certain cancers can claim $100,000 from RECA program.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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New Mexico residents diagnosed with certain cancers can now claim $100,000 from the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), regardless of whether they lived in the Tularosa Basin. Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández says many people are unaware of this opportunity to receive tax-free compensation for qualifying diseases.

Why it matters

The RECA program was established to provide financial assistance to individuals and communities affected by the negative health impacts of nuclear weapons testing and uranium mining in the mid-20th century. Expanding eligibility to all New Mexico residents diagnosed with qualifying cancers aims to reach more of those impacted.

The details

Under the updated RECA guidelines, New Mexico residents who lived in the state for at least one year between 1944 and 1973 and have been diagnosed with specific cancers, including leukemia, multiple myeloma or lymphomas, can claim a $100,000 payment. The compensation is tax-free and can also be paid to survivors.

  • The RECA program was established in the 1990s.
  • The expanded eligibility for New Mexico residents took effect in 2026.

The players

Teresa Leger Fernández

A Democratic Congresswoman representing New Mexico who has advocated for expanding the RECA program.

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What they’re saying

“Not enough people are aware of this opportunity.”

— Teresa Leger Fernández, Congresswoman (kob.com)

What’s next

Congresswoman Leger Fernández's office is working to raise awareness about the expanded RECA eligibility to ensure all qualifying New Mexico residents can access the $100,000 compensation.

The takeaway

This expansion of the RECA program aims to provide long-overdue financial assistance to New Mexico residents whose health was impacted by the state's nuclear history, helping to address longstanding inequities.