US Nuclear Waste Policy Act

The US Nuclear Waste Policy Act, enacted in 1982, establishes a framework for managing and disposing of radioactive waste from nuclear power plants and defense activities. It assigns the federal government the responsibility to develop a permanent disposal site, specifically a deep underground repository. The Act also sets safety standards, financing mechanisms, and processes for selecting and operating such facilities, aiming to protect public health and the environment. Overall, it aims to provide a structured, long-term solution for handling nuclear waste responsibly.