SENATE BILL REPORT

                  SCR 8432

                As Passed Senate, March 4, 1996

Brief Description:  Recognizing the importance of preserving the Hanford Fast Flux Test Facility.

Sponsors:  Senators Hale, Loveland and Rasmussen.

Brief History:

Senate Adopted, 3/4/96.

Staff:  Phil Moeller (786-7445)

Background:  The Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) is a late-generation research reactor located at Hanford.   For the last several years the FFTF has been without a specific mission and the United States Department of Energy has begun the process to close the reactor.

The reactor can be used for a variety of projects, including the creation of certain medical isotopes that presently are nearly all imported.  Concern has been raised over the cost of closing the facility, and interest exists to privatize the operation of the project.

Summary of Bill:  The state of Washington is directed to call on the President and Congress to ensure the restart and continued operation of the Hanford Fast Flux Test Facility.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.