Leaders of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in a letter Monday asked Secretary of Energy Ernie Moniz for information on the current status of the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD) programs.
The letter, signed by committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-Mich.), Ranking Member Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Rep. Tim Murphy (R-Pa.), and Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), noted that NSDD programs have partnered with 59 countries over the last five years to maintain deterrence and detection capabilities at foreign ports and border crossings for radiological and nuclear materials. These programs, which include installation of radiation detection systems at border checkpoints, airports, and seaports, have cost around $1 billion over that time period, the letter said.
“We write today because recent international developments – particularly the rise of well-funded terror groups and the curtailment of U.S.-Russian cooperation on nuclear material security – have underscored the importance of NNSA’s [NSDD] programs,” the lawmakers said, noting the committee seeks more information on “expenditures, technological development, and the progress of international cooperation within the program.”
The letter asked that Moniz work with congressional staff to offer briefings and other information to help the committee assess the status of those programs. “This should include information concerning technological capabilities and prospects for improvement, the quality of participation of foreign partners, and related efforts to ensure program goals are met expeditiously and cost-effectively,” it said.