It’s in our interest to fund non-proliferation

It's important for Congress to fully fund nuclear non-proliferation programs that have been successful in keeping Americans safe. Experts agree that terrorists obtaining and using unguarded nuclear materials to attack us is one of the most serious threats facing the country today.

However, these highly successful programs are being underfunded. House Republicans have proposed cutting this year's budget by an additional 22 percent. These programs have secured enough material to make more than 120 nuclear weapons since 2009.

Failing to fund non-proliferation programs damages American security. The key political figures to secure this funding are Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen, R-N.J., chairman of the Energy and Water Subcommittee, and Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Members of Congress should encourage Frelinghuysen and Inouye to fully fund non-proliferation programs.

Sue Christiansen

Iowa City