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Congresswoman Wants Diablo Canyon Plant's License Renewal Halted

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A California congresswoman wants federal regulators to stop considering a license renewal for the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant until earthquake threats are thoroughly reviewed.

Rep. Lois Capps said Thursday that it's irresponsible to consider extending the life of the coastal plant's twin reactors until earthquake faults near the plant are thoroughly and independently studied -- especially since the nuclear crisis in Japan.

Pacific Gas and Electric Co. has asked the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to renew its license to operate the reactors near San Luis Obispo, which expire in 2024 and 2025.

The company says the plants are safe.

But the Democratic congresswoman says there are too many unanswered questions about potential earthquakes and plant safety for the NRC to continue consideration of possible 20-year extensions.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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