Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, recently expressed his frustration with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky, over the latter’s stance on a bill designed to offer compensation to radiation exposure victims. Following a private meeting, Hawley shared with the media his disappointment regarding McConnell’s decision to exclude his amendment, which aimed to broaden and extend the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, from the National Defense Authorization Act, despite it receiving 61 Senate votes.
Hawley articulated his concerns to McConnell, emphasizing the dire situation of many Missourians suffering due to radiation exposure. He criticized McConnell for dismissing the financial aspect of the proposal, especially considering the funds allocated to other causes, such as Ukraine. Furthermore, Hawley has revised his proposal to encompass affected individuals in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alaska, addressing McConnell’s potential state-related concerns.
Despite McConnell’s apparent indifference, he did not obstruct an agreement Hawley reached with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat from New York, to schedule a vote on the radiation compensation bill. Hawley expressed optimism about the forthcoming vote, highlighting its significance and the urgent need for such legislation.
