On behalf of the nuclear energy industry, I thank you for your support of nuclear technology-related programs in the Energy Department (DOE) and your oversight of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for fiscal 2004.

The Nuclear Energy Institute is responsible for developing policy for the U.S. nuclear industry.  NEI’s 270 corporate and other members represent a broad spectrum of interests, including every U.S. energy company 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.

My statement for the record addresses three key points for your consideration this year:

1. Congress should reclassify the Nuclear Waste Fund, reorienting it to its original purpose and ensuring adequate funding for the Yucca Mountain repository project. 
2. Increased research and development (R&D) on advanced nuclear technology is essential to maintain America’s leadership role in commercial nuclear technologies.
3. The NRC’s budget and staffing should be reassessed in light of current trends.

I also will discuss briefly several important programs that the nuclear energy industry supports, including research into the health effects of low levels of radiation.