New nuclear power plant proposal in Missouri causes debate among Missourians

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Intro:	The hallways of the capitol building were packed with people ready to argue their thoughts on the new power plant plan in Missouri.
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OutCue:	SOC

Wrap: More than one hour before the start of the Senate Committee hearing, Missourians crowded around the closed doors hoping to get a seat.

The big commotion was all about Ameren Missouri's plan to build a nuclear power plant and who should pay for it.

Warner Baxter CEO of Ameren says he hopes to obtain an early site permit to build the plant which would cost ratepayers.

Actuality:	AMEREN!!.WAV
Run Time:	00:07
Description: Preserving this valuable option for the state comes at a very low cost. Less than two dollars per year for the average residential customer.

Opposition says they are concerned that Missourians will bear too much financial responsibility.

No vote was taken on the bill.

From the State Capitol I'm Kadee Brosseau.

Intro:	Missourians shoved their way into multiple Senate Committee rooms to give their opinion about the possible new power plant and it's implications.
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OutCue:	SOC

Wrap:

Actuality:	CROWD.WAV
Run Time:	00:02
Description: NATS- Crowd noise and someone shouting "get in there!"

That was the sound in the hallway of state capitol one hour before the hearing.

Ameren Missouri, a company that provides statewide energy, is looking to build a second new nuclear plant.

To do this, they say they need an early site permit.

Money to do this would come from Missouri ratepayers.

Executive Director of Missouri Association for Social Welfare Bob Quinn says the association doesn't want Missourians to pay any more than necessary.

Actuality:	QUINN.WAV
Run Time:	00:04
Description: It's a speculative business venture their investors should pay for that, the stockholders should pay for that.

The committee took no immediate action on the bill.

From the State Capitol I'm Kadee Brosseau.