Pete Domenici: “In summary, No. 1, there is no authorization to build any new nuclear weapons. We are building none now. We have not…”

“In summary, No. 1, there is no authorization to build any new nuclear weapons. We are building none now. We have not built any for a long period of time. No. 2, a portion of this bill says the Nevada Test Site will be made ready so it can be used in 18 months rather than 3 years. Almost everyone knowledgeable in the field thinks it is high time that happened. No. 3, there is a small amount of money to begin planning, designing and feasibility, for a pit manufacturing facility. We are the only nation with nuclear weapons which has no spare pits, plutonium pits, the essential ingredient. We have tried to make them in Los Alamos. It is makeshift and it has been very expensive. It is clearly indicated for the next 40 or 50 years we need to build a facility. This bill provides a start on that long-term effort. Not yet have I said anything about new weapons or America engaging in a new course of conduct with respect to nuclear energy. That is not happening. Next, the bill says, do not tie the hands of our great scientists with reference to the future. Let them study, let them think, let them design, but do not let anyone build any new weapons. Let them think about the future and what might be needed in light of the changed circumstances in the world. It is very prudent to do that.”