Editorial: Health risk denials are reversed — finally

Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2000 | 9:26 a.m.

For decades the federal government has denied that workers developed illnesses from nuclear weapons production. But a preliminary study, which was ordered by President Clinton, has found that some employees who helped make nuclear weapons may have received cancer and other illnesses from being exposed to toxic materials or radiation. This is a significant turnaround because it marks the first time the federal government has made such an admission involving radiation, which likely will lead to compensation for some workers.

The Nevada Test Site is not included in the draft report but, as the Sun's Mary Manning reported Monday, the facility could be included by the time the final study is issued. Critics will point out -- correctly -- that it is a disgrace the federal government took so long to acknowledge what should have been done so many years ago. Still, it is a testament to this administration -- and Energy Secretary Bill Richardson -- that such an admission is forthcoming at all. Now it is up to the federal government to move quickly and ensure that these workers and their families get the appropriate compensation that they deserve.