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2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vaneta Becker and 4 co-sponsors

Act 707 mandates a feasibility study for new nuclear energy in Arkansas, assessing economic, environmental impacts, and job creation to enhance the state's power supply.

Signed by the Governor

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Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1572, now known as Act 707, aims to establish a technical feasibility study for new nuclear energy generation in Arkansas. The bill recognizes the need for a continuous and adequate power supply for citizens and businesses in the state and declares an emergency to expedite the study's initiation.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several critical components:

Engagement of Consulting Firm:

The Department of Energy and Environment is required to hire an outside consulting firm within 60 days of the act being funded.
The selected firm must have significant experience in the nuclear industry and be staffed with experts in nuclear reactor design, operation, licensing, and regulation.

Study Objectives:
The feasibility study will assess:

Advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy generation, including economic and environmental impacts.
Optimal design specifications based on site characteristics and industrial uses.
Land and siting criteria for potential nuclear facilities, including specific locations like military bases and existing energy facilities.
Safety and engineering requirements necessary for nuclear generation.
The feasibility of various nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors and microreactors.
Socioeconomic impacts, such as workforce development, tax base effects, and job creation.
A timeline for development and potential efficiencies in leveraging existing facilities.
A review of current and future policies that could support nuclear energy adoption.

Reporting:

A written report on the findings of the feasibility study must be delivered to key state officials, including the Governor and legislative leaders, within 15 months of the act's effective date.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- State government agencies, particularly the Department of Energy and Environment.
- Consulting firms with expertise in nuclear energy.
- Investor-owned electric utilities and electric generation cooperatives, which will be involved in providing data and insights for the study.
- Local communities that may host nuclear facilities, impacting job creation and economic development.

Procedural Aspects

The bill was introduced on February 25, 2025, and underwent several amendments before being passed.

It was declared an emergency measure, allowing it to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or after a specified period if not vetoed.

The bill was officially enacted as Act 707 on April 16, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1572 represents a significant step towards exploring nuclear energy as a viable option for enhancing Arkansas's energy supply. By conducting a thorough feasibility study, the state aims to evaluate the potential benefits and challenges associated with nuclear energy generation, thereby informing future energy policy decisions.

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