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House designates Jan. 27, 2001 as a day of remembrance for downwinders; HCR 1 passes unanimously
Summary
The Utah House unanimously approved HCR 1 recognizing the 50th anniversary of nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site and designating Jan. 27, 2001 as a day of remembrance for downwinders and uranium miners affected by testing and exposure.
The Utah House unanimously approved HCR 1 designating Jan. 27, 2001 as a day of remembrance for citizens affected by Cold War nuclear testing and for uranium miners who later suffered illness related to exposure.
Representative Michael Styler, sponsor of the resolution, told the chamber that the 50th anniversary of testing at the Nevada Test Site "marks the fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of nuclear testing at the Nevada test site on 01/27/1951," and urged the body to recognize those who "suffered as a result of being active participants in the nation's nuclear testing program." The resolution expresses the legislature's hope for "peace, justice, healing, reconciliation" and directs that a copy be sent to Downwinders Incorporated and Utah's congressional delegation.
Lawmakers from across the House described personal and constituent experiences. Representative Urquhart recounted hearing of the "upshot knot hole series" of tests and said local measurements showed high radiation in St. George; Representative Shurtleff said he plans to continue efforts to establish a study subcommittee. Several members registered conflicts where they had family ties to affected people; the House recorded those conflicts and voted 70-0 to pass the resolution.
The resolution will be transmitted to the Senate and copies sent to affected advocacy groups and the state's federal delegation.
