Allegany County, NY in Regards to Labeling of Depleted Uranium Shipments
Type: Resolution
Status: Adopted on 6/14/04
Vote: In Favor - 13 Opposed - 2
Source File: http://www.alleganyco.com/btn_leadership/meeting_minutes/board/2004/2004_Board/june14.htm
Text:
RESOLUTION NO. 120-04
REQUESTING UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO LABEL DEPLETED URANIUM SHIPMENTS AS “RADIOACTIVE” TO PROTECT EMERGENCY RESPONDERS IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT DURING TRANSPORT
Offered by: Public Safety Committee
WHEREAS, unmarked radioactive ammunition shipments are currently allowed by a special United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) exemption, allowing explosives and radio-active material to be shipped with only an “Explosive” placard, and
WHEREAS, the USDOT exemption, DOT-E9649, was first applied for in 1986 by the Military Traffic Management Command (MTMC), and
WHEREAS, DOT-E9649 has been renewed every few years by the USDOT and the MTMC, and could be renewed again on June 30, 2004, and
WHEREAS, Depleted Uranium (DU) munitions are uniquely hazardous material, consisting of a radioactive penetrator which breaks down into small particles when burned, and
WHEREAS, in a highway or railway fire, DU munitions could possibly spread radioactive material downwind for a great distance, and
WHEREAS, first responders (local police and firefighters) would have no idea that the shipment contains potentially harmful radioactive materials, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED:
1. That the USDOT is asked not to provide an exemption on appropriate labeling.
2. That the Director of Emergency Services make all the appropriate contacts to State and Federal Agencies to further understand the issue and express concern on the issue.
3. That the Clerk of this Board is directed to send this resolution to all counties in New York State for similar action.