Year
1985
Abstract
Expectations by States in fulfilling their responsibilities in the disposal of radioactive wastes as defined in the Nuclear Waste Policy Act are discussed. Specific areas include informational needs, participation in the process of site selection and characterization, access to technical data in a timely manner, and development of consultation and cooperation agreements. Experiences in New Mexico over the past seven years in conducting an independent technical review of the WIPP Project are described. A discussion is included of avoidable factors that contribute to public concern of radioactive waste disposal on relative risk, voluntary versus involuntary risk, technological needs, changes in disposal practices, public health concerns and enforcement of regulations.