The state of Utah expects a final decision this summer on the Skull Valley Goshute Tribe's license for a nuclear waste dump.

The tribe is seeking permission to store up to 44,000 tons of nuclear waste on a small portion of its 18,000-acre reservation. Private Fuel Storage, a consortium of public utilities, is leasing the land for an unspecified amount

The state of Utah opposes the plan and has been fighting it in court and before the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The agency, which is responsible for the licensing process, has rejected every challenge so far.

A group of tribal members also oppose the repository and have been trying to get chairman Leon Bear, who signed the PFS lease, out of power. Bear faces sentencing for pleading guilty to federal tax fraud charges.

Get the Story:
Nuclear dump a step closer (The Salt Lake Tribune 6/21)

Relevant Documents:
News Release: NRC Licensing Board Denies Utah's Motion (May 24, 2005) | Public Decision: In the matter of Private Fuel Storage (February 24, 2005)

Relevant Links:
Skull Valley Goshute Tribe - http://www.skullvalleygoshutes.org
Private Fuel Storage - http://www.privatefuelstorage.com

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