Topeka ? The stalled plan for the National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility in Kansas may be regaining traction in Washington, D.C.

Gov. Sam Brownback says he’s encouraged by reports that the Department of Homeland Security is eager to discuss releasing $40 million for a utility plant for the $1 billion NBAF lab. It would research foot-and-mouth and other dangerous animal diseases that can be passed to humans.

Progress has slowed since a site next to Kansas State in Manhattan was chosen in 2008.

Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., brought up the delay in releasing federal funding for NBAF construction during a Senate committee hearing Wednesday.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano responded by telling Moran the agency proposed meeting with Kansas officials to discuss NBAF cost issues.