Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the following statement regarding the Bonneville Power Administration’s (BPA) release of a draft decision to extend the contract to provide electricity to the Intalco aluminum facility through at least May of 2012.

“I have been working to keep Intalco running for nearly ten years.  The plant supports over 500 good jobs for Whatcom County workers and their families. 

“A one-year extension of the current contract is a great step forward, and I will stand by Intalco workers and keep pushing for a long-term contract.  A long-term contract will provide stability for workers and give the plant a reason to make major long-term investments. 

“I applaud BPA for working with Intalco through many ups and downs to structure a power contract that makes good business sense and protects local jobs.”

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