WATCH: Senator Blunt Rochester Questions Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Workforce Development

Click here to watch Senator Blunt Rochester's Remarks

Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, today questioned the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) on workforce development. Blunt Rochester noted that nuclear energy development is critical to meet growing energy demand and lower energy costs for American household, but it can only be unleashed with a strong nuclear workforce. She emphasized the importance of institutional knowledge at the NRC to support technological advancements and safety. Additionally, Blunt Rochester encouraged transparency and public involvement during NRC rulemaking.

Senator Blunt Rochester's full remarks and exchange can be found here. A key excerpt is below:

Senator Blunt Rochester: "Commissioner Wright, what do we need to be doing as a country to expand the nuclear workforce? "

Commissioner Wright: "We need to pay attention and talk about the workforce. As Commissioners, when we go out to universities and other places where we know there's interest, whether it be middle schools, high schools, or the university programs, we need to show that the NRC is a good place to work - We are the cool kids on the nuclear block. People can grow a family and have a career that is meaningful while working in their local communities."