Could we please see the results of your pit-aging studies?

But the question is, has it made a difference?

So you're saying that based on this new acceptable dose conversion factor that you can now process more plutonium. Therefore, the new facility is not necessary. Is that what you're saying?

Because it seems to me, before we fund something, we ought to know where things are.

Yes, the plutonium pits.

Right. Thank you very much. It's a good idea, Senator. And I'd be very pleased to participate.

Candidly, I don't know whether this facility can produce or not.

If it can't operate, why fund it? If it doesn't operate well, why fund it when, as I understand it, there are other methods of handling the problem?

Well, I've asked GAO to take a look at this.

Well, if the original estimate was September, and it's now March, that's a substantial period of time.

And you're $800 million into it.

So we didn't fund it.

Okay, but for my purposes, what you're telling us is that for the next 20 years, the 10 to 20 percent figure is enough, 10 to 20 pits is enough.

Is it possible that NIF will not achieve ignition?

You are saying there is a likelihood we will achieve ignition by the end of the year?

NIF is supposed to achieve ignition by September. My question is, will it? There are some that believe it will not.

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I'm strongly opposed to it.

But the question is, has it made a difference?

Well, let me ask you, is there any way for the Administration to propose, award a bill, for the highest priority projects in the country based on protection of life and property?

If it can't operate, why fund it?