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U.S. Rep. Jim Matheson urges Utah lawmakers to oppose renewed nuclear testing and reclassification of radioactive waste
Summary
In a floor address to the Utah House, U.S. Rep. Jim Matheson warned that proposed federal testing and waste reclassification could expose Utah to radioactive contamination and said he will introduce legislation to protect residents; he urged bipartisan cooperation and public engagement.
U.S. Rep. Jim Matheson told the Utah House on the floor that renewed federal interest in developing and testing new nuclear weapons and in reclassifying radioactive waste could put Utahns— health and safety at risk. "Any testing of a new type of nuclear weapon at the Nevada test site would once again expose Utahns to the dangers of atomic fallout," Matheson said, adding that he will introduce legislation in Congress to hold the federal government accountable and to protect the state.
Matheson framed the issue as bipartisan and civic rather than partisan, saying he had spoken with Utahns statewide — from teachers to farmers — about concerns. He cited polls he described as showing broad opposition to reclassifying radioactive waste for storage in Utah and criticized past federal assurances that later proved incomplete. "If the waste isn't that bad, then Ohio and New York shouldn't be in such a rush to get rid of it," he said, arguing that local residents deserve meaningful public participation and review.
During a roughly 30-minute exchange with members, Matheson answered questions about the economy, public lands, and education policy. He said federal tax cuts have increased economic activity but that job creation remains insufficient, and he advocated incentives tied to hiring. On public lands he urged stakeholders to look for common ground rather than an "all or none" approach to wilderness and access.
Lawmakers pressed Matheson on next steps and partisan lines. He emphasized he intended to reach out to a bipartisan coalition, starting with Western members of Congress, and asked Utah legislators to speak with a unified voice to protect residents. The House recessed after several rounds of questions and returned to regular business after the visit.
Matheson—s visit was presented to the House in a Committee of the Whole and concluded with an invitation for floor members to ask a few questions; no formal House action followed his remarks.
