Barbara Boxer

Let me assure everyone here before Fukushima, the Japanese were saying the same things, Senator Sessions.

When a commissioner says in the opening statement, I have no concerns, let's be clear, there are concerns.

I want to thank the Commission. You'll be glad to know I just have a few more questions.

Why did San Onofre shut down, why did Crystal River shut down, why did Vermont Yankee shut down?

I am very disappointed that the commissioners haven't gotten more involved at this point.

Anyone who says that a shut down plant is not as dangerous has to just read what the Chairman said.

The American people need to know who you are meeting with because your decisions are very important.

I will not have any problem doing that.

I really like them personally, so good for you for that.

The fire could well spread to older spent fuel. The long term land contamination consequences of such an event could be significantly worse than those from Chernobyl.

There is an urgency and to you, there should be.

If you still take that position, this committee is going to do its work; we are going to get these documents.

This facility sits on an earthquake zone and a tsunami zone.

The fact is not one of these has been implemented on the ground. It is 3 years and counting.

I welcome your candid views as to where we are in regard to your ability to attract and retain the very best.

This is unacceptable, this delay, and it puts the safety of the American people at risk.

I am deeply troubled that commissioners haven't seen this. Maybe they knew about the fire.

An accident here could be worse than Chernobyl.

I am concerned about the impact of the recent government policies on the budget has had on your capacity to retain the very best people.

Will you deny that request? I am asking yes or no.

I have 8 million people living within 50 miles of that site.

Let's be clear anyone who says it is not serious because you are shut down, if there is a fire, doesn't know what they are talking about, let's just be clear.

Never has the NRC ever denied a request for an exemption from safety.

I want to know, I have the answer, I just want to get you to confirm it.

I have introduced three bills with Senators Markey and Sanders to increase the safety of spent nuclear fuel and improve the decommissioning process.