Missouri's House has created a special committee to investigate the effects of nuclear waste from past weapons production in the St. Louis area and propose legislation.
Allison Kite reports for Missouri Independent.
In short:
- The new committee will gather testimony from experts, residents and workers about the health and environmental consequences of nuclear waste in the region.
- Radioactive waste from the Manhattan Project has polluted several sites in St. Louis and St. Charles counties for decades, affecting Coldwater Creek and a landfill.
- The first meeting will take place on October 15 to explore solutions and develop legislative responses for 2025.
Key quote:
"We must take a comprehensive approach to address the lasting impact of nuclear weapons production in Missouri. The health and well-being of our residents and the environment are at stake."
— Rep. Tricia Byrnes, committee chair
Why this matters:
Generations of St. Louis residents have been exposed to radioactive contamination, leading to health risks and environmental degradation. The new committee aims to tackle these issues with legislative solutions, providing long-term relief.
