The U.S. Senate passed a critical piece of legislation that is intended to strengthen the nation’s nuclear energy sector with an overwhelming majority vote.
The measure was opposed by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), with the law passing by a vote of 88-2. The nuclear package was merged with an additional law that reauthorized the U.S. Fire Administration and grant programs for firefighters. Additionally, the president will receive this comprehensive bundle.
The objective of the measure is to expedite the approval process for the construction of new nuclear plants, as numerous extant plants in the country are approaching the end of their useful lives. Furthermore, it mitigates the licensing fees that power companies are required to pay in order to commence initiatives. Additionally, it requires the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to generate a report that evaluates methods for streamlining and expediting the environmental review process.
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) informed reporters that the event would be historic in terms of small modular reactors, which are the future of nuclear energy.
The nuclear power sector of the nation is expected to receive a substantial boost, according to supporters of the measure.
Lesley Jantarasami, managing director of the Bipartisan Policy Center’s energy program, stated to The Hill, “It facilitates the process by which industry must obtain approvals for the construction of these projects.”
The bipartisan nuclear-fire bill was also advanced by the overwhelming majority of House members in a 393-13-1 vote. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a far-left Michigan Democrat, voted “present” to demonstrate her support for the fire provision but her opposition to the nuclear portion.
Donald Trump’s administration has prioritized the “unleashing of American energy.”
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission was directed by President Trump to reduce regulations and expedite the issuance of new licenses for nuclear power facilities. The commission is required to act on applications within 18 months. This directive was issued in four executive orders.
Previously, the United States was the global leader in nuclear design and construction. However, China is currently constructing a record number of reactors, a position it has earned due to exorbitant prices and delays.
The directives are designed to reduce the NRC’s footprint and expedite federal permitting for new nuclear projects and technology. Additionally, they seek to implement cost-cutting strategies.
The sector will receive federal subsidies, as the House of Representatives’ draft budget legislation maintains tax incentives for both new and existing nuclear facilities. However, the legislation mandates that the construction of these facilities commence before January 1, 2029.
The objective is to increase the capacity of domestic nuclear power generation from approximately 100 gigawatts to 400 gigawatts by 2050, a threefold increase over the next 25 years.
This week, the United States Senate has been exceedingly active.
The Senate approved 48 of President Trump’s nominees in a roll call vote on Thursday. This occurred as a result of Republicans’ utilization of the “nuclear option” to modify the body’s regulations with a mere majority.
Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former Fox News host who was engaged to First Son Donald Trump Jr., who is currently the U.S. ambassador to Greece, was among the individuals who were approved on Thursday.
Callista Gingrich, who is married to former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, will now serve as ambassador to both Switzerland and Liechtenstein. This is due to the fact that all 51 ballots for the sub-Cabinet and ambassadorial positions were cast along party lines.
This vote was the initial of numerous confirmations that were enabled by the “nuclear” move, which followed months of Democratic delays.
Republicans are currently seeking to expedite the process of eliminating a backlog of nearly 100 civilian candidates.
“Why has not a single nominee been confirmed by voice vote or unanimous consent?” On the Senate floor, Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo., stated, “We are aware of the reason.” “Democratic obstruction is the cause.”
Barrasso continued on the Senate floor, “The nation has never witnessed anything comparable.” “The Senate floor, the federal government, and our nation’s progress are being frozen by Senate Democrats.” This degrades the protection of the United States. It impedes the agenda that Americans voted for.”
