WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers’ (WA-05) legislation that prohibits the import of enriched uranium produced in Russia. She says H.R. 1042 will send a strong signal to the market and encourage the investment needed to restore America’s nuclear fuel infrastructure.
In the United States today, nuclear plant operators rely on Russian enrichment for more than 20% of their reactor needs, although many have said they are seeking to end that reliance as soon as possible. Rodgers says the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act would help end that dependence, promote American nuclear leadership, and strengthen our energy security.
In addition, Rodgers says Putin has weaponized Europe’s reliance on Russian natural gas.
Chair Rodgers and Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee Chair Jeff Duncan (R-SC) released the following statement after H.R. 1042 passed the House with a bipartisan voice vote.
“Today, nuclear fuel produced by Russia accounts for more than 20 percent of the fuel used by U.S. reactors. This has given Putin a dangerous amount of leverage over America’s energy security. H.R. 1042 will ban these fuel imports from Russia and help restore America’s nuclear leadership and fuel infrastructure. We’re proud to lead this effort and grateful for the support from our colleagues in the Senate, particularly Senator Barrasso. We hope the Senate will move swiftly to pass this important legislation so it is sent to the President’s desk to become law.”
Click here to watch Rodger’s remarks on the House floor this evening.
