State Senator Cathy Young (R,I,C - Olean) today commented on the state lawsuit filed to ensure remediation of radioactive waste at the West Valley Demonstration Project.

"It’s about time," said Senator Young. "I fully support the state’s court action. The federal government must take responsibility for cleaning up West Valley. This lawsuit could break the impasse that has plagued us for too long."

According to the NYS Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the Attorney General’s office, the lawsuit seeks to clarify the responsibility of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for certain aspects of the cleanup so that the federal government is held responsible for completing the project. The Attorney General's Office and NYSERDA filed the lawsuit to resolve issues that have delayed the project.

"Despite the federal government’s endless foot dragging, Congressman Randy Kuhl and Tom Reynolds have been at the forefront pushing for federal cleanup. This lawsuit enhances their efforts. The people of West Valley and the entire region deserve to have this radioactive morass alleviated."

For more information log on to http://www.ny.gov/governor/press/06/1211062.html

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