Bill > SB5821

This bill directs the Washington State Department of Commerce to develop a comprehensive nuclear power strategic framework to assess the potential integration of advanced nuclear energy into the state's energy strategy. Recognizing the state's ambitious decarbonization goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to 100% renewable electricity by 2045, the bill acknowledges the growing energy demand and the potential of advanced nuclear technologies to provide reliable, clean, and stable power. The department is instructed to seek non-state funding to create a framework that will identify state objectives for new fission nuclear power generation, outline implementation processes, assess challenges and opportunities, explore potential multi-state partnerships, and develop policy recommendations. The framework must address critical aspects such as siting, permitting, tribal consultation, workforce development, and potential regulatory reforms. Specifically, the bill suggests considering expedited review for nuclear projects at previously evaluated sites like Hanford or former fossil fuel generation locations. The department must solicit input from the energy strategy advisory committee and provide public comment opportunities, with the ultimate goal of integrating the nuclear power strategic framework into the next update of the state energy strategy. The bill emphasizes that the framework's development is contingent upon securing sufficient non-state funding to cover associated costs.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5821&Year=2025&Initiative=false