Bill
Bill > SJR33
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 In 1996, the United States Congress repealed the Nuclear Radiation and Secrecy Agreements Act, freeing Atomic Veterans to describe their military involvement in nuclear testing and to file for VA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 American military service members who participated in nuclear weapons tests between 1945 and 1962, or served in or around Hiroshima and Nagasaki during that period. These "Atomic Veterans" were exposed to radiation during at least 235 atmospheric nuclear weapons tests, and many were initially prevented by secrecy laws from seeking medical care or disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for radiation-related conditions. The resolution acknowledges that while a 1996 act of Congress removed these barriers, many veterans had already passed away, and it aims to recognize their patriotic service and crucial role in national defense during a critical historical era, with the Governor encouraged to issue annual proclamations for its observance.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/SJR33 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/SJR/33_I1.HTM |
Loading...