# Plain Language Summary: Marshall Islands Nuclear Apology Resolution

This is a joint resolution—basically a formal statement from Congress—that officially apologizes to the people of the Marshall Islands for the nuclear testing the United States conducted there during and after World War II. Between 1946 and 1958, the U.S. military detonated 67 nuclear weapons on and around the Marshall Islands, exposing the local population to massive amounts of radiation. The resolution acknowledges this historical harm and says the U.S. regrets what happened.

The resolution also reaffirms America's commitment to its "free association" relationship with the Marshall Islands. This is a special political arrangement where the Marshall Islands is an independent nation but has a close partnership with the U.S. for defense and some economic support. By passing this resolution, Congress is essentially saying this relationship remains important and valuable to both countries.

In practical terms, this resolution doesn't create new laws or change how money flows to the Marshall Islands—it's primarily symbolic. However, it's significant because it's an official government acknowledgment of past wrongs. For the people of the Marshall Islands, many of whom still suffer health problems from radiation exposure decades later, this apology represents recognition of their suffering. It could also strengthen the diplomatic relationship between the two countries and potentially support future discussions about ongoing health care and compensation for those affected by the nuclear testing.

A joint resolution formally apologizing for the nuclear legacy of the United States in the Republic of the Marshall Islands and affirming the importance of the free association between the Government of the United States and the Government of the Marshall Islands.

Hirono, Mazie K.

 <p>This joint resolution expresses that Congress </p> <ul> <li>recognizes that the United States' nuclear testing program and radioactive waste disposal in the Marshall Islands caused irreparable material and intangible harm to the people of those islands, </li> <li>apologizes on behalf of the United States to the individuals and families of the Marshall Islands for the hardships they have endured as a result of the U.S. nuclear testing program and radioactive waste disposal, and </li> <li>recognizes that it is incumbent on the United States to open dialogue regarding the nuclear legacy of the United States in Marshall Islands during any negotiation of the Compact of Free Association or its subsidiary agreements.</li> </ul>