Measure Would Alter Nuclear Nonproliferation Policy

In an effort to reduce the threat of nuclear weapons, the US has made an effort to reduce global trade in bomb-grade uranium, which is often used for medical isotope production. In recent years, Washington has required isotope-producing firms to move towards use of low-enriched uranium, which has less destructive capabilities. But a provision in an energy bill currently under consideration by the US Congress could undermine these efforts by eliminating constraints on exports of bomb-grade uranium by the US. Congressional critics charge that this provision was inserted only after extensive lobbying by isotope-manufacturing firms, who do not wish to incur the costs of switching to low-enriched uranium. These firms, meanwhile, say the provision will help keep the cost of cancer medicines and medical imaging low. But in a world increasingly threatened by terrorism, will the medical uses of bomb-grade uranium outweigh its security risks? – YaleGlobal