Tell Your Senators to Reject the Radiation Control Act

Right now, the West Virginia Legislature is in a Special Session, and one of the bills being pushed through is HB 208 -- the Radiation Control Act. This bill could allow dangerous radioactive waste to be stored or disposed of in our state, potentially without the proper oversight or protections in place.

Exposure to radiation can cause cancer and other health impacts through water pollution, which is why EPA maintains standards for radioactivity in drinking water.

Why You Should Be Concerned
Special Session Bills are for emergencies or to correct appropriations. Passing HB 208 is not an emergency, and it’s not the kind of bill to rush through a Special Session.

The bill would allow the Department of Health to regulate radiation -- including its storage and disposal -- and enter into agreements with other states about their radioactive waste. The language in this bill is vague and seems to repeal the current prohibitions against the disposal of radiation waste in West Virginia. The undefined provisions could open West Virginia to out-of-state radioactive waste disposal. The lengthy debate and questions in the House on September 30 show just how confusing and unclear this bill is.

Rushing this bill through a Special Session -- meant for emergencies and budget corrections -- poses a serious threat to our drinking water and public health.

Take Action to Protect Public Health & Our Water
The Senate could vote on HB 208 as soon as Sunday, October 6th, 2024 -- and we need your help to ensure West Virginia doesn’t become a dumping ground for radioactive waste. Let your voice be heard by contacting your Senators and urging them to reject HB 208. This bill should be fully vetted through the normal legislative process.