Selecting host states for low-level waste disposal sites

In December 1980, Congress enacted the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act (P.L. 96-573), assigning state governments the responsibility to provide for safe and efficient low-level waste disposal. The law encourages cooperation among states in meeting this responsibility, and allows congressionally approved interstate compacts to restrict use of regional disposal sites to member states only after 1986. Six compacts covering the Northwest, Rocky Mountain, Central States, Southeast, Midwest, and Northeast regions have been negotiated. Each of the six compacts incorporate the 1986 exclusion provision. California and Texas are the only states proceeding individually. Establishment of new land disposal sites remains the critical measure of success. Identifying host states for new sites is the critical next step. A framework for a host state selection process is outlined.