It is the purpose of this subchapter⁠—

(1)  to provide direction to the Secretary with respect to the disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel;

(2)  to authorize the Secretary, pursuant to this subchapter⁠—

(A)  to provide for the construction, operation, and maintenance of a deep geologic test and evaluation facility; and

(B)  to provide for a focused and integrated high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel research and development program, including the development of a test and evaluation facility to carry out research and provide an integrated demonstration of the technology for deep geologic disposal of high-level radioactive waste, and the development of the facilities to demonstrate dry storage of spent nuclear fuel; and

(3)  to provide for an improved cooperative role between the Federal Government and States, affected Indian tribes, and units of general local government in the siting of a test and evaluation facility.