PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:
As a consequence of dismantling nuclear warheads while in the process of the build-down of the Nation's nuclear arsenal, a significant portion of the inventory of nuclear materials that were formerly parts of weapon systems will be handled or stored at the Pantex Plant near Amarillo, Texas. This agreement will provide financial assistance to the State of Texas to establish and maintain a National Resource Center for Plutonium (The Center). The Center will be a scientific and technical information resource for the government of Texas, local, State, and national committees, oversight agencies, task groups, and the public in general on issues relating to the storage, disposition, potential utilization, and transportation of plutonium, high explosives, and other materials that may be included by agreement with dismantling nuclear weapons. The Center will also provide advice to the Interagency Working Group on Nonproliferation and Export Control, is charged with developing a National strategy for disposition of plutonium that is in excess of defense needs. The Center will also respond to needs for environmental and health research, and for information and interpretation of technical and scientific data.

 ELIGIBLE FUNCTIONAL CATEGORIES:
1. ENERGY;
- Specialized Technical Services;
- Facilities and Equipment;

 WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THIS PROGRAM:
- State;
- Local;
- Specialized group (e.g. health professionals, students, veterans);

 WHO CAN APPLY:
- State (includes District of Columbia, public institutions of higher education and hospitals);