January 12, 2016

The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology has voted to approve the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act (H.R. 4084), legislation aimed at increasing nuclear research within the Department of Energy (DOE). The bill would authorize DOE national laboratories to collaborate with the private sector to create nuclear prototypes and increase funding for DOE nuclear programs.

Sponsored by Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX), Committee Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), and Representative Randy Weber (R-TX), the bipartisan bill will now move on to the House floor for consideration. Proponents of the bill claim that increasing nuclear research will allow the U.S. to maintain nuclear technology leadership and address threats of climate change.

Sources: House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, E&E News

Updated 2/8/2016