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Committee advances HB 696 to allow uranium conversion and enrichment operations in Montana
Summary
Rep. Gary Perry told the committee HB 696 would open the state to conversion and enrichment of uranium mined or milled in Montana or transported into the state, arguing for economic and national security benefits. Opponents warned of transport, contamination and community consent risks. The committee approved an amendment and advanced the bill for transmittal to the House.
Representative Gary Perry presented House Bill 696 as a forward‑looking measure to permit uranium conversion and enrichment facilities tied to in‑state production or proximate imports, arguing that it would reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, create jobs and strengthen Montana’s role in a national nuclear supply chain. “I want us to be at the table, not on the menu,” Perry said.
Opponents including environmental groups and tribal leaders raised concerns about transporting large quantities of uranium, potential contamination of roads and communities, and the economic risks of committing to a still‑maturing technology. Nick Fitzmaurice of the Montana Environmental Information Center urged a do‑not‑pass, citing examples of costly nuclear projects and the need for community consent and robust environmental safeguards.
Proponents including labor representatives and some former legislators said the bill would enable good‑paying technical jobs and help ensure energy security. DEQ staff described how the bill would be codified into the Major Facility Siting Act and explained the state’s role in the federal licensing process; the department said it could require applicant‑funded technical contractors to support a state recommendation.
The committee adopted a DEQ‑informed amendment to tie the bill into existing siting procedures, voted in favor and directed the bill to proceed to the House.
