Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson questioned the Department of Energy today on its cleanup efforts at our nation’s major nuclear sites as part of its FY2011 budget request.  Assistant Secretary of Environmental Management Ines Triay testified before the Subcommittee.

During the hearing, Simpson asked Triay for the status of the Advanced Mixed Waste Treatment Project at the Idaho National Laboratory. “This contract has been extended nine times already.  The workers and my constituents are understandably nervous about the uncertainty that this creates for them, and they are anxious to have a decision made.”  Simpson said.  “Can you tell me when you expect to have a decision on this?” Assistant Secretary Triay told Simpson that she expected a decision to be made by the end of the month.

He also questioned her on the impact that the Administration’s decision to cancel the Yucca Mountain project could have on cleanup on the Idaho Governor’s Agreement and cleanup at Idaho.  “I am concerned by the impact that ending the Yucca Mountain program could have on cleanup at Idaho and sites throughout the complex,” Simpson said.  He asked her to explain what this would mean for cleanup agreements, including the Idaho Governor’s Agreement, and asked DOE to consult with the major stakeholders on any decisions impacting cleanup in the future. While Triay recognized that a geologic repository is still necessary, she said that DOE was committed to meeting the milestones laid out in the Governor’s Agreement.
 
Both Simpson and Triay recognized the good work that is occurring in Idaho.  “I am pleased that DOE recognizes all of the positive things occurring at the INL,” Simpson said after the hearing. “These accomplishments would not be possible without continued stable budgets, and I will work with my colleagues to ensure that the DOE receives adequate funding to meets its obligation to clean up these sites.”

Simpson is a Member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Energy and Water Subcommittee which oversees funding for the Department of Energy.