Watkins Appointed to National Nuclear Committee

Recognizing the role he and his legislative district have played in Kentucky’s contribution to the nation’s nuclear industry, Kentucky House Speaker Greg Stumbo has appointed state Rep. Gerald Watkins of Paducah to the National Conference of 

State Legislatures’ Nuclear Legislative Work Group.
            
“Gerald is the House’s expert on any issue involving nuclear energy, so appointing him to this committee was an easy one to make,” Speaker Stumbo said. “I’m confident he will be an asset to his fellow committee members and will keep us up to date as well here in Kentucky.”
            
“I’m certainly honored to serve in this capacity and look forward to taking on this additional responsibility,” said Rep. Watkins, D-Paducah. “My hope is that this will help me expand the nuclear industry’s profile in our community and in other areas of the commonwealth.”
            
NCSL is the nation’s only organization dedicated solely to state legislatures, and in 1992, it formed the Nuclear Legislative Work Group, which is comprised of legislators from select states involved in nuclear energy and its waste management.  At the meetings, the working group will hear federal updates from the U.S. Dept. of Energy, discuss the latest policy issues and share information taking place within their respective states.  NCSL covers costs associated with travel, lodging and food.
            
“Nuclear energy is a crucial component of our country’s energy portfolio and is poised to grow in the years ahead,” Rep. Watkins said. “This committee will help me better understand what steps Kentucky will need to take to continue having a seat at that table.”