A recent article by the generally exceptional Susan Smallheer at the Rutland Herald on the license extension process for Vermont Yankee fails to mention the role that the Vermont Legislature has granted itself in the question around whether the aging Vermont Yankee reactor will be allowed to operate beyond it’s scheduled shut-down.

While our recklessly pro-nuke Federal Government has the exclusive right to decide on license extension, the Vermont Legislature will have the final say on whether Vermont Yankee is a reliable enough value to be allowed to continue operating past 2012.

This is a plant that has recently suffered 3 radioactive leaks, an unplanned power reduction due to a known and unaddressed maintenance issue, and increased fenceline radiation. One of the oldest nuclear plants in the country it once (prior to the most recent round of issues) prompted Gov. Douglas, in a candid moment, to wonder aloud about the likelihood that “Homer Simpson is running the place.”

Still, the debate remains contentious, Entergy has yet to offer a Power Purchase Agreement to Vermont Utilities and many legislators feel that short-term electricity rates may be more important to Vermonters then the property tax relief, jobs, and environmental security that could come with the renewable energy development that is poised to replace Vermont Yankee.

In the end, this momentous decision on the future of Vermont Yankee, and, by extension, our opportunity to start producing our own, distributed, local energy will be made democratically by Vermont’s General Assembly.

Do you know where your Vermont State legislators stand on Vermont Yankee?

Our governor, who never misses an opportunity to defend Entergy, will not have any direct-role in this debate which will likely be decided in 2010.

This will be a moment where the Dem-controlled legislature will either:

A) Show an ability to stand up to powerful interests and for a visionary, proactive agenda to encourage the growth of a clean, decentralized, energy industry and portfolio for the future of Vermont.

OR

B) A willingness to negotiate with a corporate entity that has again and again shown utter disrespect for Vermont and it’s people. And, simultaneously hand Republicans’ a victory in an election year.

Many legislators, including some very dependably responsive and honorable public servants continue to be uncommitted one way or the other on whether VY should be granted permission to continue.

Despite Vermonters in communities across the state declaring their disgust with Entergy and their shoddy record… and despite continuing, disturbing, and increasingly frequent issues at the archaically designed facility many of our ‘leaders’ continue to stand on the fence.

Do you know precisely where your Legislators stands on Vermont Yankee?