State Geologist, Laurence Becker, also directs the Radioactive Waste Management Program of the Department. As each state is required by Federal law to provide for the disposal of low-level radioactive waste generated within its borders, Vermont has worked diligently to meet its responsibilities. The states are allowed, with congressional approval, to form compacts with other states for the disposal of low-level radioactive waste.

The states of Vermont and Maine have joined with Texas to fulfill this mandate for disposal which encourages state groupings. Passed by all three state legislatures, the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact received Congressional approval on September 20, 1998. The compact calls for Vermont and Maine generators to dispose of waste in a facility sited in Texas. Under the agreement, Vermont must meet its responsibilities to the State of Texas. These responsibilities include: costs of disposal; volume determinations; waste minimization; meeting packaging, processing and waste form specifications; and reporting on proposed transportation methods, routes, and shipment schedules.

The Texas Legislature meets every two years. In 2003, the Texas Legislature passed a bill which sets the framework and environmental criteria for siting a low-level radioactive waste disposal facility in Texas. Draft siting rules are under review. When the rules are final, applications will be accepted from potential operators.

Click here to visit the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (Low-level radioactive waste disposal facility draft rules).