Nuclear plant ban survives challenge in Minnesota Senate

Discussion in Senate proves fruitless
By Dennis Lien, Pioneer Press
dlien@pioneerpress.com
Updated: 03/24/2010 11:16:14 PM CDT

The Minnesota Senate entertained another effort Wednesday to lift a ban on new nuclear power-plant projects in the state. But unlike last year's successful vote, this attempt fizzled.

A solar-energy bill was pulled by its chief sponsor before senators could vote on either of two proposed amendments that would lift the ban but also would include other stipulations.

The effort, which resulted in an hourlong debate on the merits of nuclear energy, was expected after another proposal to lift the controversial ban was pulled in a Senate committee earlier this month when it was saddled with what its sponsor considered unreasonable conditions.