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Senate approves radioactive-waste site-review bill after debate on radiation limits
Summary
Senators passed a fourth substitute of House Bill 220, which clarifies waste classification and requires site-specific performance assessments and federal agreement before depleted uranium could be accepted; the measure passed 23–6. Sponsors said the bill does not itself authorize disposal and that federal and technical approvals remain necessary.
The Utah Senate voted to pass fourth substitute House Bill 220, a measure that clarifies how radioactive waste is classified at the time of acceptance and creates a legislative review process for approvals under a site‑specific performance model.
Sponsor Senator Sandel said the substitute centers the decision on scientific review, not immediate disposal: "This bill does not do, it does not approve depleted uranium to be disposed of in Utah," the sponsor told colleagues, adding that any future action would depend on a site‑specific performance assessment and an agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy. The sponsor repeatedly described the changes as technical safeguards to focus on "science, human health, and environmental safety."
Senator Davis pressed the sponsor for a technical explanation of radiation exposure levels. "Dose is measured, by millirem," the sponsor replied. "And during the operation, dose limit is 100 millirem per year. After closure, it's 25 millirem per year." The response was intended to put the project limits in context against background exposure, the sponsor said.
Several senators noted constituent opposition and a high volume of similar emails. "I've received a large number of emails of people opposing this bill," Senator Hilliard said, characterizing some messages as appearing to be coordinated and urging clearer communication from bill proponents. Sponsors said they would continue outreach and that the bill requires additional federal and technical approvals before any material is moved.
The Senate adopted the fourth substitute and passed HB 220 by roll call, 23 yeas to 6 nays. The bill will be returned to the House for further consideration as the legislative review and approval process proceeds.
