The Department of Energy (DOE) wants to move the most deadly, high-level nuclear waste in America to a dump at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. Ever since I was elected to Congress, I have been fighting this project because it threatens our health and safety. Nevadans are overwhelmingly opposed to this project, and some have been led to believe that its completion is inevitable. I disagree. We have solid scientific evidence behind us, and I believe we can defeat this ill-conceived project.

I am making significant progress in the fight to stop the transportation of deadly nuclear waste across the country. Recently, Senator Bob Bennett (R-UT), who previously voted for the proposed Yucca Mountain project, announced that he will change his position and work to find alternative solutions. I have been working with my Senate colleagues to gain support for legislation that would leave nuclear waste on-site.

Senator Bennett succinctly and clearly outlined the reasons to oppose both the proposed Yucca Mountain and PFS facilities. The momentum is shifting and the timing is right to address our nuclear waste challenges in a way that offers real, long-term solutions. The safest, most reasonable and effective solution is to store nuclear waste where it is already being produced. I have spent twenty years fighting the absurd idea that massive quantities of deadly nuclear waste can be transported across thousands of miles. I look forward to joining forces with Sen. Bennett as we work to protect our states, the West and the nation.