Spent Fuel Prioritization Act of 2019.
The resolution responds to the growing concerns about the safety and environmental risks posed by the storage of high-level radioactive waste, particularly in areas prone to seismic activity. It outlines the current inefficient management of spent nuclear fuel and advocates for its relocation to prevent potential hazards impacting nearby populations, with over 9 million individuals residing within 50 miles of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. The bill seeks to ensure both the security and well-being of the population while adhering to national safety standards.
Senate Joint Resolution No. 11, known as the Spent Fuel Prioritization Act of 2019, emphasizes the need for the federal government to prioritize the prompt and safe relocation of spent nuclear fuel from California's nuclear facilities, specifically the San Onofre and Diablo Canyon plants. The resolution urges Congress and the President to enact the Spent Fuel Prioritization Act of 2019, and mandates that the U.S. Department of Energy develops a consolidated storage facility for this waste.
The general sentiment towards SJR 11 in the legislative discussions has been positive, emphasizing the importance of environmental safety and the need for federal action. Many legislators support the resolution as a critical step forward in addressing the long-standing challenges associated with nuclear waste management in California. However, there are concerns regarding the feasibility and timelines for relocation and implementation of federal storage solutions.
Notably, some points of contention exist surrounding the effectiveness and speed of government action on nuclear waste issues. Critics may question whether federal priorities will align with the urgent need for action highlighted in this resolution. Additionally, the resolution does not dictate specific paths for storage facilities, potentially raising concerns regarding local and state involvement in the decision-making process for long-term waste management solutions. Without definitive timelines or commitments from the federal government, the urgency expressed in SJR 11 may not translate into tangible outcomes.