US judge rules nuclear production sites violated environmental regulations

A federal judge has ruled that the National Nuclear Security Administration did not properly assess environmental impacts when expanding plutonium pit production at sites in New Mexico and South Carolina. This decision challenges a 2018 plan based on outdated studies. The judge stated that the agency failed to consider the combined environmental effects of the two sites. The ruling also noted violations of the National Environmental Policy Act regarding the analysis of alternatives for producing nuclear warhead components. The National Nuclear Security Administration is reviewing the ruling and will consult with the Department of Justice. Meanwhile, production efforts at both sites continue as the agency aims to increase output to 80 pits per year.