Bill
Bill > AJR53
summary
Introduced
01/09/2024
01/09/2024
In Committee
01/09/2024
01/09/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This resolution designates July 16 of each year as "Atomic Veterans Day" in New Jersey. Atomic Veterans are American military service members who participated in nuclear tests of atomic weapons between 1945 and 1962. They served with United States military forces in or around Hiroshima and Nagasaki through mid-1946, or were held as prisoners of war in or near Hiroshima or Nagasaki. Approximately 250,000 veterans of the United States, including residents of New Jersey, witnessed and participated in at least 235 atmospheric nuclear weapons tests. Many Atomic Veterans were prevented by secrecy laws or oaths from seeking medical care or disability compensation from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for conditions they may have developed as a result of radiation exposure. In 1996, the United States Congress repealed the Nuclear Radiation and Secrecy Agreements Act, freeing Atomic Veterans to describe their military involvement in nuclear testing and to file for VA benefits. Atomic Veterans patriotically served this country, meeting the needs of national defense during a critical period in history. This State designates July 16 of each year as Atomic Veterans Day to honor the important role Atomic Veterans played in the defense of our Nation.
AI Summary
This joint resolution designates July 16 of each year as "Atomic Veterans Day" in New Jersey to honor military service members who participated in nuclear weapons testing and operations between 1945 and 1962. The date commemorates the first atomic weapon detonation (the "Trinity" test) at Alamogordo Air Force Base in 1945 and recognizes approximately 250,000 U.S. veterans, including New Jersey residents, who were involved in at least 235 atmospheric nuclear weapons tests. Many of these Atomic Veterans were previously prevented by secrecy laws from seeking medical care or disability compensation for radiation-related conditions, and were only freed to discuss their experiences and file benefits claims after Congress repealed the Nuclear Radiation and Secrecy Agreements Act in 1996. The resolution calls on the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to observe Atomic Veterans Day with appropriate activities and programs, acknowledging these service members' critical role in national defense during a pivotal historical period.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee (on 01/09/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/AJR53 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/AJR/53_I1.HTM |
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