For Immediate Release:

Thursday, July 17, 2003

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) announced that she has secured $7 million for HAMMER in the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill, which passed the Subcommittee today. HAMMER, which was left out of both the House bill and the President’s budget request, is a one-of-a-kind, hands-on training facility for Hanford workers and for the nation’s homeland security missions.

Of the $7 million Senator Murray secured in the Senate, $6 million is designated for worker training and $1 million for communications, infrastructure oversight and facility and program management. Local, state, federal and private emergency response workers come to HAMMER to receive high-tech training in the handling of hazardous materials and emergency response procedures. HAMMER is also the primary training facility for Hanford workers, which has contributed to Hanford’s strong safety record.

“HAMMER plays a critical role in the success of our homeland security efforts,” Senator Murray said. “The skills taught at HAMMER not only benefit Hanford workers, but contribute to the safety and security of families and communities across our state and region. In this tight budget year, I am pleased to have secured funding for this important training facility.”

For the second year in a row, the President requested zero funding in his budget for this important homeland security facility, and for the second year in a row, Senator Murray restored the funds in the Senate. The bill will go to the full Senate Appropriations Committee tomorrow (July 17).