Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation into law on Aug. 18, which is intended to protect the economic vitality of the Hudson River Region by restricting
discharges of any radiological substance into the Hudson River in connection with the decommissioning of a nuclear power plant.
“The Hudson River is one of New York’s landmark natural treasures, and it’s critical we stand together to protect it for generations to come,” Hochul said. “My administration remains committed to protecting the economic vitality of the region and working closely with local communities who have advocated
so passionately for this cause.”
The law aims to safeguard communities in New York’s Hudson Valley region. The Administration will continue to work closely with federal regulators,
Holtec, local officials and the State’s Decommissioning Oversight Board to identify feasible and acceptable alternatives of wastewater disposal so that decommissioning Indian Point can continue, jobs can be preserved, and the site can be cleaned up in a safe, thorough, and prompt manner.
State Senator Pete Harckham said, “This historic, landmark law prevents the release of radioactive wastewater into the river and protects the robust
economic vitality of the region. We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to find alternative solutions to this challenge and to continue the timely and safe
decommissioning of the Indian Point power plants.”
Representative Jamaal Bowman said, “Dumping 1 million gallons of radioactive water into a river with a basin home to more than 8 million people is never an option. Polluting facilities shouldn’t be allowed to run roughshod over the voices of our communities and push through waste disposal plans without their consent. I’m pleased that Governor Hochul is taking the action needed to protect New Yorkers by signing A7208/S6893 to ban decommissioned
nuclear plants from dumping waste into the Hudson River. We must take every precaution when it comes to protecting the health of our communities
and we must always put democracy over convenience.”
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “Today marks a monumental stride forward in safeguarding our majestic Hudson River and the Hudson Valley region. I commend Governor KathyHochul for her leadership in signing this legislation, and I also thank Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Dana Levenberg for introducing this vital measure. Today, we take a stand and shield the Hudson River from potential harm during Indian Point’s decommissioning – prioritizing the environment and human well-being above all other considerations.”
