Heinrich Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy for Violations at WIPP

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, issued the following statement on the state of New Mexico's decision to fine the U.S. Department of Energy over $54 million for numerous violations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant and Los Alamos National Laboratory:

“The State's action is warranted and I agree that these fines should not jeopardize completing the environmental cleanup at Los Alamos National Lab and WIPP. Our nation’s security relies heavily on the important work being done at these facilities, which are also big employers and critical to New Mexico’s economy. Collaboration between the Department of Energy, regulators, WIPP, and the community will be critical. The safety and health of our workers and community is of the utmost importance. Ensuring that the lines of communication remain open and that key maintenance and management programs are in place will continue to be a priority.”