America's nuclear waste capital wants to keep up their cottage industry even though New Mexico wants the authority to crack down.

The article focuses on the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in New Mexico, the only geologic repository for nuclear waste in the United States, which is currently engaged in a contentious relationship with state regulators and local communities. WIPP has been operational since 1999, storing contaminated materials from nuclear weapons production, and employs about 1,500 people. While local leaders support the facility for its economic benefits, state officials are pushing for stricter regulations and oversight due to environmental and health concerns, particularly following a radioactive release incident in 2014. The article highlights the ongoing negotiations between the Energy Department and New Mexico officials regarding waste management and the future of nuclear waste disposal in the state. [Extracted from the article]