Washington, DC Sept. 30, 2011

Dear Constituent:

Thank you for contacting me about nuclear energy. I’m honored to represent you. Your opinion is very important to me and my priority is to provide Iowa’s Second District with the best representation possible.

As our nation debates energy sources for our future, we must focus on cleaner renewable energy as found in sources such as biofuels and wind power. I strongly support an American energy policy that promotes the production of safe energy sources to create new jobs in Iowa while reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil. We must focus on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, which nuclear power does not emit. However, we must also take into account the serious and very long term issues associated with nuclear waste and safety of new and existing nuclear facilities.

I am concerned about the risks associated with nuclear energy to American citizens and the environment, particularly with respect to the danger from radioactive leaks and waste storage issues. With an eye to our energy policy, we must remember that nuclear energy is just one aspect of our energy infrastructure. A responsible energy policy must emphasize the use of innovative, renewable resources, in addition to existing technology.

The tragic situation in Japan has reminded everyone that we must be cognizant and vigilant in ensuring our energy sources are safe and all safety technology is up to date. Iowa’s only nuclear power plant, Duane Arnold in Palo was recently licensed for another 20 years of operation after going through safety and environmental reviews from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I strongly support President Obama’s recent request for a comprehensive safety review of the U.S.’s 104 nuclear reactors. I assure you that I will continue to carefully monitor the use of government resources for U.S. nuclear programs.

Thank you again for contacting me about this important issue. My office is here to assist you with any and all concerns you have, so please do not hesitate to contact me whenever you feel that I can be of assistance. I encourage you to visit my website at http://www.loebsack.house.gov and sign up for my e-newsletters to stay informed of the work I’m doing for you. I am proud to serve the Second District, and I am committed to working hard for Iowans.

Sincerely,

Dave Loebsack
Iowa’s Second District