Passage of the Nuclear Energy Innovation and Modernization Act

WASHINGTON – Clean Air Task Force welcomes the passage into law of the Nuclear Energy Innovation and Modernization Act (NEIMA). To fully decarbonize the global economy, it is essential that we will need to preserve both existing nuclear plants and build advanced nuclear reactors. NEIMA’s objectives support both of these.

The legislation was co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of Senators, including Republicans John Barrasso (WY), Jim Inhofe (OK), Mike Crapo (ID), Deb Fischer (NE), and Shelley Moore Capito, (WV) as well as Democrats Sheldon Whitehouse (RI), Cory Booker (NJ), and Joe Manchin (WV), following its passage in the House earlier this week.  The new law, which is expected to be signed shortly by the President, has a number of key provisions, including:

• Directing the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to create a licensing pathway for advanced reactor designs to license them in a safe, but more efficient manner;
• Updating the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s user fee structure to increase transparency and accountability;
• Amending current laws to encourage private investment in research and test reactors.

The bill also contains a number of other initiatives meant to advance nuclear energy in the United States.

“In a time of enormous disagreement between both sides of the Congressional aisles, said Matt Bowen, Nuclear Policy Fellow for Clean Air Task Force,” this legislation is a shining example of how both parties can agree on a bi-partisan basis on a matter of great urgency for the country.  We salute not only the bill’s sponsors in the Senate and the House, but also the many congressional staff members involved with the development of this legislation.  For the original proponents of the legislation, it’s so gratifying to be able to push this bill over the top.”