We stay Committed to Community to Ensure WIPP is Brought Back to Full Operations

Statement

Today, Congressman Steve Pearce visited the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad with Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Ernest Moniz and members of the New Meico Congressional delegation. The tour was part of a two-day visit by Secretary Moniz. Congressman Pearce was encouraged after discussions with Secretary Moniz and the community, and supports DOE's efforts to recover WIPP to full operations.

"Just after the February incident at WIPP, Secretary Moniz promised to keep the team together, and safely and expeditiously recover the site, in order for it to fully reopen. During the last two days, Secretary Moniz has given us proof that the DOE will honor those committments," said Congressman Steve Pearce. "I support Secretary Moniz and his team's efforts to completely recover the WIPP site in the safest and most timely manner possible. Our visit to the site today was a positive step, and we learned about aspects of the progress and safe recovery at the site. Safety will remain a priority as we stay committed to our neighbors and community. WIPP remains vital to the national security of our nation. The continued support of the community, and work by the highly trained and professional workforce in Carlsbad, is critical to getting this mission back on line. WIPP is only as strong as the community and workforce behind it."

"Congress must do its part to assist DOE in the recovery process," Pearce continued. "My collegues and I have a responsibility to ensure Secretary Moniz and WIPP are provided with the resources they need to bring back WIPP. Earlier this summer, I was able to work with Chairman Mike Simpson of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water to provide WIPP with a budget of $340 million for 2015, which includes $220 million for operations and an extra $120 million specifically for the recovery effort. I look forward to the Senate working this fall to match the House, to ensure WIPP has the funds it needs."

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