Dewey-Burdock project manager Mark Hollenbeck said that the bill was intended to delay or completely stop the project.
"The bill sponsors ignored the experience and expertise of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), which recently issued the final supplemental environmental impact statement (FSEIS) for the project," Hollenbeck added.
The FSEIS report concludes that there are no environmental impacts that would preclude licensing the facility.
Additionally, Hollenbeck noted that the key points of HB 1193 were addressed in the FSEIS and rejected by NRC, and that the bill offered no additional protection to public health or environment.
Powertech president and CEO Richard Clement said that the NRC’s review illustrates the project’s environment protection steps and highlights the positive impacts of the project for South Dakota.
"We continue to be pleased with our progress in South Dakota and appreciate the continued support of local residents and state legislators," Clement added.
