Pages 37-38 from Truman. Papers of Harry S Truman. Confidential File. Box 5

In a letter dated February 1, 1946, President Harry S. Truman responded to Senator Brien McMahon's request for his views on the domestic development and control of atomic energy, as outlined in Senate bill S. 1717. Truman expressed the importance and urgency of the subject, both for the welfare of the United States and for achieving lasting peace worldwide.

Truman acknowledged the thorough and impartial hearings conducted by McMahon's committee, which provided valuable insight into the issues surrounding atomic energy legislation. He referred to a special message he had sent to Congress on October 3, 1945, calling for legislation to establish a policy for the domestic control of atomic energy.

Based on further study and additional technical information gathered, Truman outlined his recommendations for essential elements of sound atomic energy legislation:

1. The establishment of a civilian commission for the control of atomic energy, composed exclusively of civilians but not excluding former military personnel. Truman favored a three-member commission rather than a larger group, emphasizing the need for full-time government employees.

2. The government should be the exclusive owner and producer of fissionable materials, distinguishing them from source materials. Truman advocated for the absence of private patents in this area, asserting that the dangers of government monopoly were small compared to the risks of allowing entities other than the government to own or produce crucial substances affecting national safety.

3. Devices utilizing atomic energy should be fully available for private development through compulsory, non-exclusive licensing of private patents. Truman emphasized the importance of regulating royalty fees to ensure their reasonableness, aiming to distribute the benefits of atomic energy widely while maintaining private enterprise incentives.

Truman also highlighted the need for legislation to ensure genuine freedom in conducting independent research, coordination between the commission's research activities and the proposed National Science Foundation, and the commission's ability to carry out international agreements related to inspection, control of production, information dissemination, and other areas of international action.

Truman concluded the letter by stressing the urgency of enacting sound domestic legislation on atomic energy to address both domestic and international issues effectively. He commended McMahon's committee for its pioneering role in this historic legislation. The letter was signed by Harry S. Truman.