House Energy and Commerce Committee clears used nuclear fuel bill

The House Energy and Commerce Committee recently advanced a bill to address the nation’s used nuclear fuel issue with a vote of 49 to four.

“We commend the leadership of Chairman Rep. Walden (R-OR), Environment Subcommittee Chairman

Rep. Shimkus (R-IL), and ranking member Rep. Pallone (D-NJ) in seeking comprehensive bipartisan solutions for used nuclear fuel management,” NEI President and Chief Executive Officer Maria Korsnick said. “Today’s vote of 49-4 is a positive first step towards solving a long overdue issue.”

The Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2017 (HR 3053) would facilitate moving forward with the Yucca Mountain project and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to fund and support privately owned consolidated interim storage facilities under certain conditions.

“The Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2017 begins a long overdue discussion regarding reform to ensure necessary funding to implement the program,” Korsnick said. “Finally, it provides a pathway for bringing Nevada and the local communities to the table to discuss benefits associated with these projects.”

Korsnick also noted that the bill is consistent with NEI’s policy principles for used fuel management.