Montpelier, Vermont - January 25, 2012
Gov. Peter Shumlin took questions Wednesday on Judge Garvin Murtha's decision last week preventing the state from shutting down the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in March.
The governor emphasized that the appeals process is in the hands of Bill Sorrell, D-Vt. Attorney General, and the Public Safety Board. He declined to comment on the future of the power plant and how much money would be spent if the state appeals the decision. He did mention that the AG's office brought in roughly $40 million last year; more than the total cost of cases taken on by the state.
"We're exploring all of our options right now and we'll make a decision on the appeal within the period allowed by the courts. But we haven't made a decision and until we do, I will be uncharacteristically quiet," said Shumlin, D-Vermont.
The governor says his answers are limited for legal reasons, but says the ruling leaves the state with a lot of control in the Public Service Board. He says he's confident the board will make the right decision for the state.
