U.S. nuclear regulators weakening safety rules, AP report finds
A radioactively-contaminated container at a nuclear power plant.
The tragic meltdown of the Fukushima nuclear reactor has brought increased scrutiny to the nuclear regulations in this country. A new in-depth investigation by the Associated Press says federal regulators have been repeatedly relaxing safety standards or simply not enforcing them. The report looks at aging plants and pipes, changing safety margins, and what it calls “regulatory compromises.” It also found radioactive material has leaked from 3 out 4 of U.S. nuclear plants. What is the response from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)? What informs their decisions to modify safety regulations? How close is too cozy a relationship between the NRC and the nuclear industry?
Guests:
Scott Burnell, Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Daniel Hirsch, President, Committee to Bridge the Gap, a non-profit nuclear policy organization that focuses on nuclear safety, waste disposal, and proliferation
James Boyd, California Energy Commissioner
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