Nevada lawmakers reject Yucca Mountain as high level waste site citing safety concerns

The Senate Committee on Legislative Operations and Elections convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the proposed Yucca Mountain site for high-level radioactive waste storage. The meeting highlighted significant opposition to the plan, emphasizing concerns based on scientific and technological assessments.

Nathaniel Ellison, representing the opposition, articulated that the proposal for Yucca Mountain is fundamentally flawed. He pointed out that the installation of necessary infrastructure would require advanced robotics and a substantial amount of aircraft-grade titanium, which is not feasible. Ellison stressed that the scientific evidence indicates that Yucca Mountain is not a suitable location for the nation’s nuclear waste, urging a united front against the federal government's plans.

During the meeting, Senator James Orangehall raised the question of alternative sites for the national stockpile, suggesting a consent-based approach where states and communities could agree on safe locations. He criticized the decision to focus solely on Yucca Mountain, recalling that the original proposal included multiple sites for consideration. Orangehall emphasized the need for ongoing exploration of solutions as technology evolves, highlighting the importance of addressing safety concerns related to water tables, seismic activity, and the risks associated with transporting nuclear waste.

The discussions underscored a collective commitment among Nevada lawmakers to oppose the Yucca Mountain project, advocating for a more scientifically sound and community-consented approach to nuclear waste management. The committee concluded the session without further questions, but the implications of their discussions are expected to resonate as Nevada continues to challenge the federal proposal.