Katie Porter: “I rise today to oppose the Markey Amendment to H.R. 2419, Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies…”

“I rise today to oppose the Markey Amendment to H.R. 2419, Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006. This amendment would cut $5.5 million from nuclear reprocessing and $10 million from nuclear waste disposal to facilitate interim storage of nuclear waste. Mr. Chairman, the Federal Workforce and Agency Organization Subcommittee of which I chair is currently investigating the alleged falsification of documents and computer models at the Yucca Mountain site. What my investigation has uncovered so far is deeply disturbing and could very well lead to compromising the validity of the entire site. If that is the case, then interim storage will be necessary. As opposed to waiting for that date, it is important that we act proactively and begin the process to identify these interim sites across the United States. While I find it troubling that the Committee has decided to appropriate over $600 million for Yucca Mountain, I am encouraged that they have recognized the need for legislative language citing the need for interim storage for the reasons that my Subcommittee has already uncovered. I may also take a moment, Mr. Chairman, to publicly acknowledge my opposition to Yucca Mountain and my support for any site, interim or permanent, outside of my district and the State of Nevada.”