Three federal lawmakers visited the Centrus Energy site in Piketon, Ohio, on Wednesday to see the uranium enrichment operation there and discuss its economic and energy implications.
Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Rep. Dave Taylor (R-Ohio) toured the facility, which enriches uranium for nuclear fuel production. According to the report, the delegation talked about expanding enrichment within the United States and lessening dependence on suppliers abroad.
Husted said the plant might one day help supply the nation's nuclear fuel needs. Capito drew a comparison between Pike County and her home state, describing communities where local job options are scarce and younger residents may relocate or commute far for work. She said the facility would offer opportunity for future generations. Lawmakers expressed optimism about what they observed, and officials cited thousands of jobs tied to the project, along with the possibility that continued investment keeps southern Ohio families in the region.