Keating: Nuclear Plant Funding Secured

The decommissioning of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Plant in Plymouth is three years away, but Ninth District Congressman William Keating wants to make sure the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has enough funding to oversee that process.

Keating says N-R-C funding was recently cut, but he and Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont worked together to get the funding amendment through the House.

While decommissioning is the responsibiltiy of the plant owner, Keating tells WBSM News, N-R-C oversight is very important during the process.

"Going through decommissioning is a process where plant operators often cut back in personnel, these are critical moments and we want to make sure that the N-R-C has all the resources it needs to oversee this and make sure its done properly and safely," said Keating.

Keating calls the amendment, "simple and straight forward." The Congressman says the funding will ensure protection for surrounding communities while the plant is being dismantled.