Jasper Packard: “Over 15 years ago, Congress recognized the need to build a permanent repository to handle our nation's spent nuclear…”

“Over 15 years ago, Congress recognized the need to build a permanent repository to handle our nation's spent nuclear fuel and passed laws directing the Department of Energy to take the lead in this effort. Despite collecting billions of dollars from ratepayers across the nation, the Department of Energy has yet to open even a temporary site where spent nuclear fuel can be safely stored until a permanent facility is built. It is time for Congress to protect America from harmful nuclear waste by storing it safely. I urge my colleagues to support the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. Passing this important legislation will move us one step closer to eliminating the threat of nuclear contamination in communities across the nation. Some would have us believe that the nuclear waste should remain where it is. But right now, there are over 30,000 tons of radioactive waste stored outside nuclear reactors at over 80 facilities in 41 states. Some sites are dangerously close to fault lines, volcanoes and other areas prone to natural disaster. Our government has a responsibility to protect its citizens. Until now, the Department of Energy has not fulfilled its obligation. The Nuclear Waste Policy Act will protect America from harmful nuclear waste by moving it to a safe site. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support it.”