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Committee unanimously backs resolution expressing Utah’s support for advanced nuclear manufacturing
Summary
The committee unanimously passed House Concurrent Resolution 001, which signals state support for advanced nuclear manufacturing and workforce development; proponents cited job opportunities and Operation Gigawatt while environmental groups urged caution and transparency.
Representative Carl Albrecht presented HCR 1 as a nonbinding resolution expressing Utah's support for advanced nuclear manufacturing and the state’s desire to host manufacturing and related supply-chain activities. Albrecht cited industry interest following prior legislation and the governor’s Operation Gigawatt initiative.
Albrecht told the committee the resolution "signals Utah's commitment to fostering the development of technical solutions" and stressed potential jobs and opportunities for rural areas. Representative Dominguez asked about workforce development; Albrecht said the state is already coordinating with universities and technical colleges to establish training pipelines for welders, fabricators and engineers.
Emmy Lesovsky of the Office of Energy Development told the committee she is "grateful" for the committee's support and said the resolution helps prepare the state for future clean power and workforce opportunities.
Carmen Valdez, senior policy associate for HEAL Utah, thanked leaders for considering energy futures but urged caution: the resolution "places Utah taxpayers at risk of subsidizing speculative technologies" and she called for transparency, public involvement and a slow, thoughtful approach. Citizen commenter Chris Schoppard echoed concerns about costs, timelines and waste management.
Representative Dominguez moved to favorably recommend HCR 1. After brief discussion and final sponsor remarks about an "all of the above" energy approach, the committee voice-voted in favor and the chair ruled the resolution passed unanimously out of committee with a favorable recommendation.
The resolution is nonbinding but signals legislative support that may inform state outreach and workforce initiatives. The committee did not record a roll-call tally; the chair described the action as unanimous.
