DOE Comments on Senate Approval of Nuclear Waste Tank Cleanup

6/3/2004 5:37:00 PM

WASHINGTON, June 3 /U.S. Newswire/ --

Deputy Secretary of Energy Kyle McSlarrow issued the following statement today after the U.S. Senate approved legislative language allowing the Department of Energy to proceed with tank waste cleanup:

"We are very pleased that the Senate approved DOE's scientifically sound plans to empty, clean, stabilize and dispose of nuclear waste currently stored in tanks at its Savannah River site in South Carolina. Thanks to the leadership of Senator Graham, our plans, approved in conjunction with the State of South Carolina, will ensure that we engage in cleanup activities that are fully protective of the environment and our workers' safety. In light of the Senate action today, I am directing our Department to proceed with the Salt Waste Processing Facility in Savannah River.

"And, as a result of the leadership provided by Senators Crapo and Craig, the Senate has authorized the availability of funds for critical cleanup activities in Idaho and Washington approved in conjunction with those States. Therefore, I am also directing our Department to proceed aggressively with activities relating to the safe management of tanks or tank farms, the on-site treatment and storage of waste, consolidation of waste, and the emptying and cleaning of storage tanks in Idaho and Washington.

"There remain issues relating to the final disposition of waste in Idaho and Washington. Therefore we will continue to negotiate with these States to find a mutually agreeable solution that resolves these issues."

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