Downwinders publicly thank Sen. Bob Bennett for his successful effort to block funding for a study of possible transportation of chemical weapons stockpiles from one site to another.
We have long been concerned about the potential for Utah, which has the first and only operating nerve-gas incinerator in the nation, becoming the regional or national disposal site for the chemical weapons now stored at seven other sites around the country. No such move is imminent - it would be a reversal of the long-standing policy to destroy the stockpile on-site, requiring congressional approval, and it would be hugely controversial.Nevertheless, Utahns should remain vigilant to assure that we don't become the dumping ground for the nation's nerve gas. With his work on the Appropriation Act, Sen. Bennett has shown that he is looking out for our interests on this issue. We hope that other state leaders will do the same.
Steve Erickson
Salt Lake City