Grundy Reporter

The state of Illinois has officially lifted its nuclear moratorium for the development of new nuclear reactors. Governor [insert Governor's name] signed House Bill 2473, sponsored by Illinois Senate Deputy Minority Leader Sue Rezin, into law today. The legislation, which lifts the ban on small modular reactors (SMRs) less than 300 MW, will come into effect on January 1, 2026.

Senator Rezin highlighted Illinois' successful and safe history of nuclear energy generation, stating, "The signing of House Bill 2473 will ensure that our state can remain a leader in the energy sector by offering us the ability to utilize the amazing advancements in new nuclear energy technology."

House Bill 2473 also directs the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Office of Homeland Security to establish rules for reactor decommissioning, environmental monitoring, and emergency preparedness by January 1, 2026. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will provide consultation in these efforts.

State Representative Lance Yednock expressed his support for the bill, stating, "Today's bill signing moves us one step closer towards our goal of energy independence by allowing clean, reliable energy production in Illinois. By leading on this issue, Illinois is signaling to the rest of the country that we are open for business and ready for much-needed economic development."

The legislation also authorizes the Governor to commission a new study to research the state's role in guiding the development of new nuclear technology. It also includes conforming statutory changes, such as updating references to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Office of Homeland Security in preexisting Illinois law.

Senator Rezin emphasized the economic benefits that lifting the moratorium will bring, stating, "Lifting our state's archaic moratorium on new nuclear energy construction will open the door for companies that have been developing new advanced nuclear energy technology the opportunity to invest in Illinois."

House Bill 2473 received bipartisan support in the General Assembly, passing during its November veto session with a large roll call in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The lifting of the nuclear moratorium in Illinois marks a significant step towards embracing the advancements in nuclear energy technology. Illinois is positioning itself as a leader in the energy sector, signaling its readiness for economic development and clean, reliable energy production. With the establishment of rules for decommissioning, environmental monitoring, and emergency preparedness, Illinois is taking proactive measures to ensure the safe implementation of next-generation nuclear reactors. The Governor's authorization for a new study further underscores the state's commitment to guiding the development of new nuclear technology. By lifting the moratorium, Illinois is attracting companies investing in advanced nuclear energy and paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.

Click this link to access more information: https://senatorrezin.com/2023/12/08/rezins-legislation-to-end-illinois-nuclear-moratorium-for-next-generation-of-nuclear-reactors-becomes-law/