Former Rocky Flats workers will testify tomorrow before an independent federal panel of scientists and doctors who could speed stalled compensation for those with cancer.
Federal authorities said all former workers at the now-demolished nuclear-weapons plant in Jefferson County are welcome to attend a public comment session before the 11-member Advisory Board on Radiation and Worker Health.
Wednesday’s meeting starts at 5 p.m. at the Westin Westminster Hotel, at 10600 Westminster Blvd., near U.S. 36 and Westminster Boulevard.
Panel members will weigh whether to grant Rocky Flats workers “special exposure cohort” status, which would mean that workers with any of 22 cancers automatically could receive $150,000 compensation plus medical help.
It was unclear how long it would be before workers would receive payments if the panel rules in their favor. A decision is expected later this week.
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt must approve the decision, and Congress could weigh into the process.
