"Given the threat of terrorist activity on U.S. soil, it's absolutely necessary that the government provide safe and secure permanent storage for spent nuclear fuel. We can't continue storing nuclear waste in 39 states at temporary sites that are often located near heavily populated areas and major water supplies. It only makes sense that we safeguard public health and security by storing spent nuclear fuel at a sight that would be tightly guarded against terrorist activity.
"In Iowa, spent nuclear fuel from the Duane Arnold plant is stored just outside of Cedar Rapids near the town of Palo. Like other facilities across the country, this plant is being forced to construct temporary storage because the federal government hasn't acted on a permanent facility. And just 10 miles from the Iowa border, at a plant that ceased operation in 1987, there are 42 tons of nuclear waste in a waterpool designed for operation, not storage.
"It's for these reasons that it's crucial the Senate move forward in designating a permanent storage facility. Storing spent nuclear fuel at Yucca Mountain would protect public safety for Iowans and improve security nationwide."