House appropriators propose $15.9 billion for NNSA

The House Appropriations Committee today marked up the fiscal year 2020 energy and water development spending bill that includes nearly $16 billion for the National Nuclear Security Administration.

The amount constitutes an increase of $665.7 million above the FY-19 level, according to a committee summary.

"This funding will maintain a safe, secure, and credible nuclear deterrent while addressing the threat of nuclear proliferation and terrorism," the summary states.

The funding breaks down as follows, according to the summary:

* "Weapons Activities -- $11.76 billion, an increase of $661 million above the fiscal year 2019 level to maintain a credible nuclear deterrent.

* "Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation -- $2.07 billion, an increase of $145 million above the fiscal year 2019 level and $82 million above the [Energy Department's FY-20] request. This funding secures nuclear material both globally and domestically. Funding is included to advance the Surplus Plutonium Disposition project.

* "Naval Nuclear Reactors -- $1.63 billion, which is $160 million below the fiscal year 2019 level, to continue safe and reliable operation of the Navy's nuclear-powered fleet and consistent with planned reductions as projects near completion.

* "Federal Salaries and Expenses -- $430 million, an increase of $20 million above the fiscal year 2019 level, to strengthen federal oversight and program and project management."

Read the full text of the bill here and the accompanying report here.