WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced a bipartisan resolution in support of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) role in promoting nuclear security. 

“The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) plays a crucial role in bolstering nuclear security and guarding against the spread of nuclear weapons and materials,” said Senator Blackburn. “We must ensure the IAEA has the resources it needs in order to strengthen our country’s nuclear security and ensure atomic energy is not exploited by bad actors around the world.” 

“At a time of immense global conflict, the International Atomic Energy Agency plays a critical role upholding global safety standards and peaceful nuclear operations,” said Senator Luján. “In my home state of New Mexico, we’ve seen firsthand the impact nuclear weapons can have on the community and to the long-term health of our citizens. This resolution makes it clear that Senators on both sides of the aisle are committed to a fully funded IAEA that has the resources to carry out its vital safety mission.”

BACKGROUND:

• The IAEA serves as the world’s central independent intergovernmental forum for scientific and technical cooperation in the nuclear field, and pursues the “safe, secure and peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology.” Founded in 1957, the IAEA is tasked with verifying that states comply with their commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and other non-proliferation agreements.
• This resolution reaffirms U.S. interest in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, securing nuclear materials, and ensuring the IAEA has the resources to successfully carry out its duties.
• It also upholds the IAEA’s position as an indispensable organization for strengthening nuclear security and facilitating access to applications of nuclear technology.

U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-Ill.) has introduced a companion resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives.