Read more in the Cape Cod Times

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Senator Julian Cyr (D-Truro) has introduced a piece of legislation aimed at increasing the accountability and efficiency of theNuclear Decommissioning Citizens Advisory Panel. The 21-member panel, created in 2016 by state energy legislation, is intended to provide citizen input into the closure and decommissioning process of Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station.

“Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station is one of the greatest public safety threats facing Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and all of Eastern Massachusetts” said Senator Cyr. “I represent – and live in – communities that would be disproportionately affected in the event of an incident at Pilgrim. Responsible closure and prompt decommissioning of the plant is essential, as are regulations that ensure a safe and responsible decommissioning.”

SD.2368, An Act relative to improving oversight of the closure of Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station expands the membership of the panel to include the Attorney General and the Inspector General; increases the authority of the Chair to conduct independent research and oversight; and directs the panel to review the economic, public health, and public safety impacts of decommissioning the aging nuclear power plant. 

The legislation also seeks to appoint a representative of the Barnstable County emergency planning department to the Panel.“

The legislation that created this panel in 2016 neglected to include a representative from the Attorney General’s office or the Inspector General. These omissions severely hinder a fully transparent decommissioning process, and I am proud to file a bill that gives a stronger voice to the citizens of the Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.” 

When Entergy Corp., announced its intention to close Pilgrim in 2019, the Legislature moved swiftly to establish a Decommissioning Panel. It has now been 18 months since the establishment of the panel, and only two public meetings have been held.