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Bipartisan legislation authored by Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) to modernize the nation’s nuclear technology was approved by the U.S House of Representatives Monday evening. The bill, H.R. 4979, the Advanced Nuclear Technology Development Act, requires the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to establish a framework for issuing licenses for advanced nuclear reactor technology and requires the NRC to submit a schedule for the implementation of the framework by 2019. Approximately 50 companies have invested over one billion dollars in nuclear power technology, but the lack of a regulatory framework to license this technology threatens continued investment and implementation.

“Nuclear power must play a significant role in American energy policy for our nation to become truly energy secure, and the future of the nuclear industry needs to start now,” said Latta. “It is imperative that we develop the right regulatory framework so advanced nuclear technologies can be developed, licensed, and constructed here in the United States. The Advanced Nuclear Technology Development Act will help the U.S. remain a leader in the nuclear industry and continue to develop clean, reliable power.”

Congressman Latta spoke on the floor in favor of the legislation. Video is available here.

In addition to requiring a licensing framework, H.R. 4979 also requires the NRC to collaborate with the Department of Energy (DOE) in the advancement of new nuclear technology. The National Labs and DOE provide opportunities for testing of new nuclear technologies on Federal lands, and the option to establish public-private partnerships between DOE and the private sector.

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