The Vote on Vermont Yankee
Why are we rushing to a vote on Vermont Yankee?
Holding a vote on Wednesday means we will ignore the thoughtful, methodical process we already have in place to consider the facts. It means that 30 people instead of 180 legislators will make a statement. It's more political theater than making good public policy. If we really want Vermont Yankee closed, we should make the decision as an entire legislature.
This vote is being pushed through without the benefit of two reports due in the next six weeks. One is a forecast on the economic impact of Vermont Yankee from the Joint Fiscal Office; the other is the "vertical audit" on reliability that we asked for. These are important studies that should be considered before taking a vote.
I have watched closely as Entergy has made one mistake after another. From where I sit, the place is a mess. Entergy has lied under oath. They said they don't have underground pipes carrying nuclear material and now those pipes are leaking. I really don't think there is much Entergy can do to regain my confidence or that of most Vermonters.
I have watched as Vermonters of all opinions began to coalesce around the idea that this company and this plant are not to be trusted. The process we began last year was working to determine the plant's reliability. A majority of Vermonters were reaching the conclusion that this plant should close in 2012 in a thoughtful, deliberative manner based on facts.
Suddenly, it is time to vote.
I have been told that we are taking the vote now so that we will not be swayed by the lobbyists who want to convince us that Entergy has changed its ways and the plant is "all better." I have been told that this vote is to let Entergy know that we are really serious about the issue. I have been told that after this vote the next legislature and governor can change their minds and extend the license.
I am not convinced that this vote is the end of the Yankee discussion. If we had followed the process we had in place, I believe that by the end of the session we would have voted as an entire legislature to close Yankee. That would have ended the discussion.
I am on record as wanting to close Vermont Yankee in 2012. Their behavior in the past few months has only confirmed my opinion. This isn't about my vote, it's about doing the job right.
Let's work together to bring new leadership to the governor's office, to build a better future based on Vermont's values and traditions.
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Thank you for your support! Please contact me to visit your area to explore the challenges and successes in your part of Vermont, or just to talk.
Sincerely,
Susan Bartlett
Bartlett for Governor