Wilson Continues Fight for SRS During Government Shutdown

Statement

Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) released the following statement after the House passed H.J. Res. 76, the Nuclear Weapon Security and Non-Proliferation Act, a bill that funds the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) throughout the remainder of the government shutdown.

"Because of the President's government shutdown, vital missions at the Savannah River Site (SRS) have been stalled with thousands of hardworking employees subject to furloughs. The passage of today's bill allows SRS to continue NNSA operations and provides the dedicated workforce with the resources they need to complete fundamental national security missions.

"Over the past few weeks, constituents have reached out to me expressing tremendous concerns over ceased Site operations. As a former employee and the Site's home-district advocate, I remain committed to helping families living in the Aiken-Barnwell community during this distressing time. Although I am pleased that a bipartisan group in the House has approved resources for the NNSA, it is Congress' responsibility to fund Environmental Management operations as well.

"Last week, I introduced legislation to keep every organization at the Savannah River Site up and running during the government shutdown. Every single mission at the Site plays an intricate role in protecting our national security. In the coming days, I will continue to encourage Congressional leadership to restore funding to the Office of Environmental Management. It is shameful that the President's announced refusal to negotiate a solution to the shutdown has placed such harsh impositions on American families," Congressman Joe Wilson said.

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