US Sens To Propose Federalizing Nuclear Plant Guards
- WASHINGTON (AP)--Two Democratic senators plan to introduce legislation after the Thanksgiving congressional recess to federalize security guards at the country's nuclear power plants.
"We can no longer leave the security at our nation's nuclear power plants to chance," said Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., who along with Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., were drafting the legislation.
Reid, who is assistant Senate majority leader and chairman of the subcommittee with jurisdiction over nuclear issues, noted that Congress just agreed to federalize passenger and baggage screeners at airports.
"It's time we focus the same energy to improve safety at nuclear power plants," said Reid.
GOP conservatives in the House had opposed making the airport workers federal employees, and may also object to federalizing guards at nuclear plants.
Private guards hired by the plant operators now handle security at the 103 nuclear reactors in 31 states. Although they carry weapons, they have no police power.
Related News
Sudbury, Ont., eco groups say sustainability is key to grid's future
SUDBURY - Sudbury, Ont., is consuming more power than ever, according to green energy organizations that say meeting the demand will require cleaner energy sources.
"This is the welfare of the entire city on the line and they are putting their trust in electrification," said David St. Georges, manager of communications at reThink Green, a non-profit organization focused on sustainability in Sudbury.
According to St. Georges, Sudbury and northern Ontario can meet the growing demand for electricity to charge electric vehicles (EVs) and smart devices.
According to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), making a full switch from fossil fuels to other renewable…
