Minnesota is 21st in the U.S. in nuclear energy production, creating many direct and indirect jobs from the industry, while contributing positively to electricity costs. Is it wise to sit on these invaluable resources at time that our state debt and unemployment rates stay high? Likewise, the Carlton and Pine County region offers few opportunities for long-term, good wage careers as those offered in this industry. There are few good jobs outside of prisons and hospitals in the region.