Feds Reject Nuclear Plant Protection from Air Attack

The 911 Commission reported that America's 103 nuclear power plants were targets considered by the al Qaeda terrorists who destroyed the World Trade Center. Anti-nuclear groups backed by eight state attorneys general have demanded that the plants be protected against attacks by hijacked airplanes. Yesterday, saying that the "inherently robust structures" provide "adequate protection in a hypothetical attack by an airplane," the Nuclear Regulatory Commission unanimously agreed there is no need for shields made of steel I-beams and cabling to provide further protection. Steve Mufson covers energy issues for the Washington Post.