The bill establishes new regulations regarding the disposal of uranium waste in New Mexico, specifically mandating that uranium tailings and waste from mining, milling, or processing can only be disposed of in federally managed underground facilities designed for hazardous waste containment. This measure aims to ensure that uranium waste is handled in a manner that prioritizes safety and environmental protection.
Additionally, the bill prohibits any state agency from issuing permits for the disposal of uranium waste in facilities that do not meet the criteria of being federally managed underground depositories. This restriction reinforces the commitment to managing hazardous materials responsibly and aligns state practices with federal standards for waste disposal.