Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, I am pleased to appear before you on behalf of the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to discuss safeguards and security for NRC-licensed commercial nuclear power plants as well as certain legislation that has been introduced to strengthen security at these facilities. I will discuss the current status of actions that NRC has taken in response to the terrorist acts that occurred on September 11, and will outline some of the work that lies ahead. I believe that the NRC’s response to the attacks has been appropriate and thoughtful, and that the NRC’s current programs continue to provide a very high level of security. I also believe that certain specific legislative proposals, which I will discuss later, would contribute further to the enhancement of nuclear plant security and I would urge the Congress to enact this legislation before adjourning later this year.
 
The Commission recognizes the elevated concern of the American public about the potential for terrorist attacks on nuclear facilities and the use of radioactive materials for purposes of terrorism. I hope that my testimony today will provide a useful perspective for the Committee and will correct any erroneous perceptions on this important subject.
 
For decades before September 11, 2001, nuclear power plants were among the best defended and most hardened facilities of the Nation's critical infrastructure. In the aftermath of the attacks, security has been enhanced even further. On September 11, the NRC immediately advised the licensees of nuclear power plants and certain other licensees to go to the highest level of security and they promptly did so. Our licensees have remained at the highest level of security since that time.