VA
Virginia House Bill HR276

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HR276

Introduced
1/24/23  

Caption

Advanced nuclear technologies & reactor projects; Dept. of Energy to evaluate research & expansion.

Impact

The bill requests that the Department of Energy evaluate various aspects concerning advanced nuclear technologies, including existing educational programs and workforce training related to these technologies. It seeks to assess the role of community colleges and higher education institutions in fostering research and degree programs that align with the state's goals for advanced nuclear projects. This evaluation is crucial, as it informs how nuclear energy can bolster job growth and economic development within the Commonwealth, particularly in areas that already host nuclear infrastructure.

Summary

HR276 is a resolution aiming to enhance the research and expansion of advanced nuclear technologies and reactor projects within the Commonwealth. It underscores the importance of domestic nuclear energy in ensuring national security and promoting energy independence. Emphasizing nuclear energy as a clean and carbon-free source, the bill reflects a commitment to meeting the state's energy needs and clean energy targets. It further highlights the significant contributions of the nuclear energy industry in providing well-paying jobs and supporting the transition towards cleaner energy solutions.

Contention

While HR276 aims to catalyze progress in nuclear technology and energy independence, it potentially raises concerns regarding environmental impacts and the long-term safety of nuclear energy. Stakeholders may debate the substantial emphasis on nuclear solutions over alternative renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, which some argue could offer sustainable energy without the associated risks of nuclear power. Additionally, the bill may prompt discussions around local governance and community input in deciding energy strategies, which is critical in addressing public apprehensions about nuclear facilities and their effects on local environments.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA SJR7

Recognizing that the Wisconsin State Legislature supports nuclear power and fusion energy as clean energy sources that are critical to safely meeting Wisconsin’s growing energy demands and declaring the legislature’s commitment to the continuation and expansion of nuclear power and nuclear technologies, the development of nuclear technologies and fusion energy, and employing the leadership and resources necessary to support the development of and investment in nuclear power, fusion energy, and related technologies in the state.

VA AJR6

Recognizing that the Wisconsin State Legislature supports nuclear power and fusion energy as clean energy sources that are critical to safely meeting Wisconsin’s growing energy demands and declaring the legislature’s commitment to the continuation and expansion of nuclear power and nuclear technologies, the development of nuclear technologies and fusion energy, and employing the leadership and resources necessary to support the development of and investment in nuclear power, fusion energy, and related technologies in the state.

VA HR124

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should support the expansion of domestic nuclear energy and advanced nuclear technology as a viable source of power in order to promote United States nuclear energy leadership and global energy independence.

VA HB894

Advanced small modular reactors; Department of Energy to study development in the Commonwealth.

VA HB1040

Adding Nuclear Energy as a Clean Energy Resource

VA HCR2

Declaring the development of advanced nuclear energy technology to be in the best interest of the state of New Hampshire and the United States.

VA SB2060

Relating to funding mechanisms within the Office of the Governor and Texas Public Utility Commission to support the deployment of advanced nuclear reactors in this state.

VA SB1111

ADVANCE Act of 2023 Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy Act of 2023

VA SB80

Energy: Fusion Research and Development Innovation Hub Program.

VA HB14

Relating to support for the development of the nuclear energy industry.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.