The North Dakota Legislature has passed Senate Bill 2159, allowing the Energy and Environmental Research Center in Grand Forks to study nuclear energy. The bill received strong support in the House of Representatives and is now headed back to the Senate after being amended. Advocates of nuclear research believe that North Dakota should not miss out on the resurgence of interest in nuclear energy and should be part of the conversation.
Rep. Jon Nelson emphasized the importance of being involved in nuclear energy research and ensuring that the state does not become a dumping ground for radioactive waste. The bill includes protections, such as approval from the state Industrial Commission and the High-Level Radioactive Waste Advisory Council for any proposed research.
The EERC research bill was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader David Hogue, who promoted the potential for nuclear energy in the state. Other lawmakers, such as Rep. Todd Porter, highlighted the competition from other states in reusing spent nuclear fuel rods and converting coal plants into nuclear facilities.
Additionally, the House passed House Bill 1025, which calls for a legislative study on the potential for nuclear power plants in North Dakota. Some lawmakers, like Rep. Jared Hendrix, advocated for waiting for the results of the study before authorizing further nuclear research. The EERC and its supporters believe that this research could contribute to the state’s energy portfolio and economic development.
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