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Guthrie’s Bill to Drive Development of Nuclear Energy Sites Signed Into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), who serves as a senior member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, released the following statement after his bill the Nuclear for Brownfields Site Preparation Act was signed into law this morning:

“Today is a momentous day not only for Kentucky, but our energy producing communities across the nation. I am honored to see my bill the Nuclear for Brownfields Site Preparation Act be signed into law this morning as part of the ADVANCE Act. This key legislation enacts conservative reforms to reduce unnecessary regulations, utilize existing infrastructure to lower project costs, and incentivize an all of the above energy future to enhance future investment in nuclear power. Importantly, this bill also makes use of our skilled energy workforce that has helped to keep the lights on in our communities for generations. It is crucial that both Kentucky and our nation make use of our dedicated energy workers to put us back on the path to energy dominance and lower energy costs. Republicans have made clear that we can put our nation firmly on the path to enhancing our energy future all while lowering energy costs with Kentucky leading the way in this crucial development,” said Congressman Guthrie.

 

Background

The Nuclear for Brownfields Site Preparation Act would direct the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to identify and report on the regulations, guidance, or policy necessary to license and allow nuclear facilities at brownfield sites as well as other sites with retired fossil fuel facilities.

The NRC would consider how existing site infrastructure can be reused and early site permits, plant parameter envelopes, or standardized applications for similar sites may be used for licensing.

The NRC would be required to develop and implement strategies, including through rulemaking, to enable and support licensing of nuclear facilities, taking into consideration matters relating to existing emergency planning, environmental data and reviews, decontamination and remediation, community engagement, and historical experience with energy use at the sites.

Click here to view the text of the Nuclear for Brownfields Site Preparation Act.



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