TO COMPLY WITH ARKANSAS ACTS 2023, NO. 259; TO REQUEST FEDERAL FUNDING FOR THE NEXT STUDY PHASE; AND TO PETITION THE ARKANSAS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO INTRODUCE FEDERAL LEGISLATION TO RECTIFY CERTAIN ENERGY ISSUES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jack Ladyman and 1 co-sponsor

HCR 1009 seeks $10 million in federal funding for nuclear fuel recycling studies in Arkansas, enhancing energy management and safety for local residents.

Approved by the Governor

Summary of HCR 1009: Arkansas Concurrent Resolution on Nuclear Fuel Recycling

Bill Number: HCR 1009
Title: To Comply with Arkansas Acts 2023, No. 259; To Request Federal Funding for the Next Study Phase; and To Petition the Arkansas Congressional Delegation to Introduce Federal Legislation to Rectify Certain Energy Issues.
Status: Approved by the Governor
Introduced: March 20, 2025
Classification: Concurrent Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HCR 1009 aims to advance the study of nuclear fuel recycling in Arkansas, in compliance with Arkansas Acts 2023, No. 259. The resolution seeks to request federal funding for the next phase of this study and to petition the Arkansas congressional delegation to introduce federal legislation addressing various energy issues related to nuclear waste management.

Key Provisions

Federal Funding Request:

The resolution requests the appropriation of $10 million from the Nuclear Waste Fund for an updated fee assessment related to spent nuclear fuel disposal.

Legislative Petition:

It calls for the Arkansas congressional delegation to introduce legislation that would:
- Require the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to assess compliance of the Nuclear Waste Fund with existing laws.
- Address accounting practices concerning the Nuclear Waste Fund to ensure that fees collected for nuclear waste disposal are appropriately allocated.

Study and Analysis:

The resolution emphasizes the need for a detailed analysis by an institution of higher education in Arkansas to evaluate the benefits and risks associated with nuclear fuel recycling versus continued storage of spent nuclear fuel.

Technical and Economic Feasibility:

It builds upon previous studies to assess the commercial viability of interim storage and recycling of spent nuclear fuel at various locations in Arkansas.

Affected Parties

Arkansas Residents: The resolution aims to enhance energy management and safety for residents living near nuclear facilities.

Educational Institutions: Local universities and colleges may be involved in conducting studies and analyses related to nuclear fuel recycling.

Federal Agencies: The U.S. Department of Energy will play a role in the funding and oversight of the proposed studies and assessments.

Procedural Timeline

March 20, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.

April 1, 2025: The resolution was read and adopted by the House.

April 2, 2025: Received by the Senate, read, and referred to the Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee.

April 7, 2025: Returned from the Senate with concurrence.

April 10, 2025: Approved by the Governor.

Conclusion

HCR 1009 represents a significant step towards addressing nuclear waste management in Arkansas. By seeking federal funding and legislative support, the resolution aims to facilitate the development of a comprehensive strategy for nuclear fuel recycling, potentially positioning Arkansas as a leader in innovative energy solutions.