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Utah Senate designates Jan. 27 a day of remembrance for Cold War nuclear testing; chamber hears personal tributes
Summary
The Utah Senate adopted HCR 1 on Jan. 26, 2001, designating Jan. 27 as a day of remembrance for those affected by Cold War nuclear testing after a Committee of the Whole tribute and a roll call vote. Lawmakers recounted alleged health impacts and requested further statutory clarity and outreach.
The Utah State Senate on Jan. 26, 2001, adopted HCR 1, a resolution designating Jan. 27, 2001, as a day of remembrance for people affected by Cold War nuclear testing.
The resolution, introduced as "HCR 1" and identified in the record with Michael R. Steiler as sponsor, was moved to the top of the second-reading calendar and read in full after senators described statewide fallout from Nevada test-site detonations. Senator Watts, supporting the measure, said the historical testing "had significant impact in the lives, particularly of children," and cited studies and reports tying fallout to cancer, leukemia and other genetic effects among people born between 1950 and 1972.
The chamber dissolved into a Committee of the Whole for a memorial tribute. Annette Morp, identified in the record as the Senate chief clerk, read a written remembrance for Eugene Lamont Bridges, recounting his death as a child in 1956 and describing family losses attributed by some to radiation exposure. Morp read a tribute written by Julia Ann Edwards and noted continuing questions about the human costs of testing.
Senators responded with personal recollections and expressions of support. Senator Butters recounted family illness he attributed to fallout and said he "fully support[s] this." After brief remarks and a moment of silence requested by Senator Suazo, the full Senate reconvened and placed the resolution for a roll call vote. The clerk reported HCR 1 had received 27 ayes, no nays and two absent; the resolution will be signed by the president in open session and returned to the House for the speaker's signature.
The resolution asks the legislature and governor to recognize the sacrifices of downwinders, uranium miners and others affected by nuclear testing and to send a copy to Downwinders Incorporated and Utah’s congressional delegation. The Senate record contains statements that studies and reports have linked Nevada test-site fallout to health problems in Utah, but the chamber did not introduce new scientific evidence during the session; members urged continued attention and outreach to affected communities.
The Senate’s action formalizes recognition of survivors and families and directs the Legislature and governor to observe the designated day and notify affected parties. The resolution’s next procedural step is signature by legislative and executive officers for final concurrence.
