Bill
Bill > AJR28
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 In 1996, the United States Congress repealed the Nuclear Radiation and Secrecy Agreements Act, freeing Atomic Veterans to describe their military involvement in nuclear testing and to file for VA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 16th of each year as "Atomic Veterans Day" in New Jersey to honor American military service members, known as Atomic Veterans, who participated in nuclear weapons tests between 1945 and 1962, or served in or around Hiroshima and Nagasaki during that period. These veterans, numbering around 250,000 nationwide, were often prevented by secrecy laws from seeking medical care or disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for health issues potentially caused by radiation exposure, though a law change in 1996 allowed them to pursue such claims. The resolution acknowledges their patriotic service during a critical time in history and requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging the observance of this day with appropriate activities.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/AJR28 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/AJR/28_I1.HTM |
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