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| Wilson Launches Study on Nuclear Weapons Policy |
May 08, 2002 |
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Study will provide in depth analysis and recommendations for U.S. policy and future Congressional action
Washington, DC - Congresswoman Heather Wilson (R-NM), chair of the House Policy Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs, has undertaken a major effort to conduct a study on U.S. Nuclear Weapons Policy. The study will consider the implications of the Administration`s recently released Nuclear Posture Review for America’s nuclear strategy, force posture, and to develop recommendations for U.S. policy and Congressional action. The release of the Nuclear Posture Review has partially reignited public debate on U.S. nuclear weapons which has been nearly non-existent for the past decade.
“Over the last decade, there has not been much discussion on nuclear weapons policy, said Wilson. “September 11th taught us that the world is complex and significant threats remain. As we have transitioned from the Cold War to today’s conflicts, we need to review our policies to develop a plan that is more appropriate for these times. This study is an opportunity for Members and their staffs to become more knowledgeable on the key issues that confront us as we move toward changes in the force structure and dealing with an aging stockpile.”
“Few issues in Congress rise to the level of importance of U.S. nuclear policy,” said House Policy Chairman Christopher Cox (R-CA). “Nuclear policy involves military strategy, diplomatic relations, scientific development, budget concerns, and a host of other issues that cross the jurisdictional boundaries of several House committees. As chair of the House Policy Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Rep. Wilson`s leadership on nuclear policy will be invaluable to her colleagues in Congress, decision makers in the Bush administration, and the nation.”
Wilson’s Subcommittee will also host guest speakers each month to further educate Members and staff on issues surrounding nuclear weapons policy. Dr. J.D. Crouch, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Policy, will address the Subcommittee on May 8, 2002. Dr. Crouch was instrumental in developing the Nuclear Posture Review. He chaired the senior steering group comprised of Joint Staff, the National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA), and all Office of Strategic Defense (OSD) organizations that are involved in the issue.
The scope of the comprehensive study will include:
the role for America’s nuclear weapons in our national security strategy
force options within a reduced stockpile
strategies for assuring safety, security, and reliability
optimal capability and capacity of our nuclear weapons complex
potential for enhancing non-proliferation of nuclear material, and
deterrence value against unconventional enemies and emerging aggressors.
Wilson’s Subcommittee will hold hearings and receive classified and unclassified testimony from administration officials, military officers, and experts in national security strategy through October of 2002. A comprehensive, public report is planned for release in January 2003.
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