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Congressman John James Co-Sponsors Resolution Protecting Great Lakes from Canadian Permanent Nuclear Storage Site

Contact: Abby Mitch

Congressman John James introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation opposing Canada’s effort to build a permanent nuclear waste storage site in the Great Lake basin. 

Canada’s Nuclear Waste Management Organization intends to store 50,000 tons of high-level, radioactive nuclear waste in South Bruce, Ontario, which is in the Great Lakes basin. High-level nuclear waste is the most dangerous form of nuclear waste and remains hazardous for tens of thousands of years.

“Our water resources are an essential part of our identity as Michiganders,” said James. “They’re a pillar of our economy, recreation industry, and national defense. It’s vital that we be good stewards of our waterways—including protecting them from potentially devastating disasters that can’t be undone.”

The resolution comes on the heels of the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which released toxic waste into nearby rivers, raising serious health concerns and prompting questions about environmental impact. 

Rep. James represents Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, which borders Lake St. Clair. He serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and is Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and the Environment.

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