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Lawmakers split as committee hears wide-ranging testimony on bill to study advanced nuclear reactors
Summary
Supporters said HB 4,046 would fund a technical, transparent study by the Oregon Department of Energy on advanced nuclear technologies; opponents, including tribal leaders and environmental groups, warned private or federal funding risks bias and that affected communities were not adequately included.
The House Committee on Climate, Energy and Environment heard hours of testimony Feb. 10 on House Bill 4,046, as amended, which would direct the Oregon Department of Energy to conduct a technical study of advanced nuclear reactors and create a nuclear energy study fund.
Supporters, including Representative Bobby Levy and Representative Boomer Wright, said the dash-2 amendment creates a balanced review of advanced nuclear options and is intended to provide policymakers with up-to-date technical information about feasibility, safety, siting, financing and waste management. Maureen McGee, representing Umatilla County and other local partners, told the committee the amendment is intended to…
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