US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HR243

Introduced
3/22/23  

Caption

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the President and the Secretary of State should ensure that the Government of Canada does not permanently store nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin.

Impact

This resolution aims to influence United States foreign policy by urging diplomatic engagement with Canada to prevent any nuclear waste facilities from being situated in the Great Lakes region. The proposed legislation reflects a broader commitment to protecting shared natural resources and acknowledges the necessity of safeguarding the Great Lakes from potential contamination. The unified stance of local, state, and tribal governments against the nuclear waste repository underscores the significant public apprehension regarding the safety of the water supply and local ecosystems.

Summary

HR243, introduced in the House of Representatives, expresses the sense of the House that the President and the Secretary of State should ensure that the Government of Canada does not establish a permanent nuclear waste repository in the Great Lakes Basin. The bill arises from significant concerns regarding the environmental, health, and economic impacts that could arise from the construction of such a repository near one of the largest sources of freshwater in North America. With over 40 million people relying on the Great Lakes for drinking water, the risks associated with nuclear waste management in this region are pronounced and widely acknowledged.

Contention

While support for HR243 is significant, it also raises concerns about the implications of international agreements on environmental policies. Proponents argue that the potential for a nuclear waste repository in the Great Lakes poses unacceptable risks not just to Americans, but also to Canadians, thus necessitating a collaborative and preventive approach. However, tensions may arise if Canada perceives U.S. actions as infringing on its sovereignty or delaying necessary waste management solutions. Thus, the bill reflects a critical intersection of environmental protection, diplomatic relations, and public health.

Companion Bills

US SR117

Same As A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the President and the Secretary of State should ensure that the Government of Canada does not permanently store nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin.

Previously Filed As

US HR369

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Secretary of Health and Human Services should withdraw a reduction in public notice and comment opportunities.

US HR635

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Ghislaine Maxwell should not receive a pardon, commutation, or other form of clemency from the President of the United States.

US HR704

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction Model undermines beneficiary access to health care and should not be implemented.

US HR862

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that a commemorative postage stamp should be issued in honor of the Buffalo Soldiers.

US HR70

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should take all appropriate measures to ensure that the United States Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the Federal Government and is not subject to privatization.

US HR465

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Congress should enact the Older Americans Bill of Rights to establish that older Americans should have the right to live with dignity and with independence.

US HR106

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United Nations Security Council should immediately impose an arms embargo against the military of Burma.

US HR403

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the United States during Public Service Recognition Week and throughout the year.

US HR994

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Secretary of Defense should review section 504 of title 10, United States Code, for purposes related to enlisting certain aliens in the Armed Forces.

US HR981

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should reduce and maintain the Federal unified budget deficit at or below 3 percent of gross domestic product.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.