Letter to the Hon. Jennifer Granholm, Secretary United States Department of Energy - Leger Fernández Urges Energy Secretary to Oppose Interim Nuclear Waste Site in New Mexico

Letter

Dear Secretary Granholm:

Thank you for your commitment to public service. I write to join the voices of the New Mexico congressional delegation to oppose the interim storage of spent nuclear fuel and high-level waste in New Mexico.

As you know, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is currently considering two applications for licenses to construct and operate a consolidated interim storage facility ("CISF"). One of these sites is in my home state of New Mexico in Lea County and the other in Andrews County, Texas. I strongly oppose the placement of an interim storage site in New Mexico. My constituents, and citizens throughout New Mexico, have repeatedly and emphatically expressed opposition to the proposed storage site.

New Mexicans have long led the nation in scientific discoveries and national security, and we recognize the importance of our national laboratories. However, we are also uniquely familiar with the harmful effects of nuclear testing and waste. Many of my constituents continue to suffer from serious health ailments related to such testing and waste. I must raise my voice in opposition to the establishment of an interim nuclear waste storage site, which would add to the burden we already carry.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

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