Downwinder claim forms at city hall

EDC Staff Report

Claim forms for Downwinders are now available at Socorro City Hall.

Louisa Lopez, a local Downwinder advocate, said the claim application is not yet available online. However, those wishing to file by mail can obtain a copy at city hall.

“We just want to caution people to be sure they send their documents certified with a return receipt,” Lopez said, “And just remember that it’s going to be a year before you get your documents back.”

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was expanded earlier this year allowing New Mexico residents who lived in the area from 1944-1962, or their surviving family, to file claims for illnesses related to the Trinity Test.

The expansion encompasses 19 types of cancer and the compensation for downwinders is a one-time payment of $100,000. However, these compensation opportunities have unfortunately resulted in a concerning amount of scams, according to Lopez.

Lopez said she is available to for any question or concerns regarding the process. She can be contacted at 575-835-8146