DOE Secretary Ernest Moniz, left, met with Rep. Ben Ray Luján to discuss the role of Los Alamos and Sandia national laboratories. Courtesy photo

CONGRESSIONAL News:

WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District and a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee released the following statement after meeting with Department of Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz: 

“Today I had an opportunity to discuss with Secretary Moniz the important role that Los Alamos and Sandia national laboratories play in New Mexico.

“As Co-Chair of the Technology Transfer Caucus, I was encouraged that Secretary Moniz shares my goal of improving technology transfer and taking steps that will enable the labs to focus more on moving innovative technologies to the marketplace. I look forward to working with Secretary Moniz on these critical efforts that can spur economic growth in New Mexico and lead to job creation in our communities.

“Secretary Moniz and I also discussed the management of the National Nuclear Security Administration and the need to improve and reform the agency in order to maintain the vitality of the science and engineering capabilities at the labs.  We need to take an honest look at the NNSA and how it works with our labs so that we can move forward with a plan that strengthens Los Alamos and Sandia and their ability to contribute to our economic competitiveness, national security, and scientific advancement.”