On behalf of the Nuclear Energy Institute, I would like to commend you, Mr. Chairman and the members of this subcommittee for focusing your attention on the value of nuclear technology-related programs in the Energy Department and Nuclear Regulatory Commission budget proposals for fiscal year 2001.

The Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) coordinates public policy for the U.S. nuclear industry. We represent 270 members with a broad spectrum of interests, including every U.S. utility that operates a nuclear power plant. NEI's membership also includes nuclear fuel cycle companies, suppliers, engineering and consulting firms, national research laboratories, manufacturers of radiopharmaceuticals, universities, labor unions and law firms.

Today, America's 103 nuclear power plants are the safest, most efficient and most reliable in the world. Nuclear energy is the largest source of emission-free electricity generation in the United States, and the industry last year reached unsurpassed levels for outstanding safety and performance.

Your continued support of nuclear research and development programs is essential to continue advances in nuclear medicine and other nuclear technologies beneficial to society, to guard against the impact of foreign supply disruptions to our energy security and to encourage growth of America's largest source of emission-free electricity. To capitalize on the many benefits of nuclear technologies, research and development of these technologies must be a priority in fiscal year 2001 appropriations legislation.