Reps. Foster, Morelle, DesJarlais Lead Bipartisan Effort to Streamline Nuclear Technical Expertise, Bolster Nuclear Security

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) introduced the bipartisan Nuclear Forensics Authority Realignment Act, alongside Congressman Joe Morelle (D-NY) and Congressman Scott DesJarlais (R-TN). This legislation would realign the National Technical Nuclear Forensics (NTNF) program from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

In 2010, Congress codified the NTNF program under DHS to ensure the government could respond to a nuclear event without warning. Realigning NTNF under NNSA will lead to greater efficiency, as NTNF will have direct access to NNSA's research and development efforts and nuclear materials. The realignment will also eliminate duplication of efforts between NNSA and DHS.

"As the conflict in Iran continues, Congress must take meaningful steps to strengthen our national security amid rising nuclear threats," said Congressman Bill Foster. "This legislation would make our nuclear agencies more efficient and strengthen their ability to safeguard the American people. As the only Ph.D. physicist in Congress, I'm proud to lead this bipartisan effort to ensure our nation's technical experts can continue their critical work at a pivotal moment for global security."

"In the event of a nuclear incident, every second matters-and our ability to respond quickly and accurately can save lives and strengthen our national security," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "This bipartisan legislation ensures our nation's top nuclear experts are working in the right place, with direct access to the tools, research, and coordination needed to respond to emerging threats. I'm proud to once again partner with Congressman Foster on this common-sense effort to streamline our nuclear forensics capabilities and better protect the American people."

"Peace through strength requires our nuclear arsenal to have all of the capabilities necessary to respond quickly and efficiently to threats from our adversaries. I'm proud to co-sponsor this legislation to ensure the safety and security of every American," said Congressman Scott DesJarlais.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

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