d. With varying amounts of time spent on Bikini. 5. The Bikinians and their legal counsel do not seem to challenge the applicability of U.S. exposure limits to their situation (although Mr. Mitchell does). 6. The Bikinians, should they decide to return to Eneu regardless of circumstances, might be willing to sign statements releasing the U.S. from liability for future related health consequences. The value of such a release is unknown. (Mr. Mitchell takes the position that should people return to Enjebi, the U.S. must share in that increased risk by accepting continued liability for any radiological consequences). 7. LLL would very much like to hire a Marshallese to tend the garden plot on Eneu. Roger Ray wrote to the Marshall Islands Government re this, with a copy to DOI and, subsequently, to DOE. DOI asked DOE if‘we concurred in this request (which we had not) and expressed concern that the Bikini people would interpret this as discrimination (i.e., if "he'’ can live there, why can't we?). yet resolved. IV. Discussions are continuing and the issue is not The Burton Bill 1. On October 10 the Senate held hearings on the Burton Bill. While Mr. Mitchell and DOI were invited to testify, DOE was not asked for comments. Their formal statements are enclosed, including both DOE testimony and written reply (Enclosures J, K, and L). 2. Prior to the hearing, OMB was concerned about these items: 3. The presiding Senator, Matsunaga of Hawaii, apparently that the open-ended health care plan be modified to periodic examination for radiation related effects and treatment if necessary, and that DOE responsibilities be funded directly rather than through DOI. These concerns are reflected in DOI's statement. offered two opinions: that since DOI is the lead agency covering a broad scope of programs in the Pacific, funding and responsibility should be located in DOI rather than fragmented among departments, and that a comprehensive program plan would seem desirable. or directives given, however. No requests were made 4. The bill currently is under study with the Senate subcommittee.