OLYMPIA, Wash. — A proposed measure that calls for Washington State to compete for a federal nuclear innovation campus has been introduced in the state legislature.
The proposal comes as the federal government seeks states to host campuses that manage the entire lifecycle of nuclear fuel, from creation to recycling, while also hosting advanced reactors and data centers, according to a release by Washington State House Republicans.
Reps. Stephanie Barnard (R-Pasco) and Mark Klicker (R-Walla Walla) are behind House Joint Memorial 4016, which requests Gov. Bob Ferguson to express interest in the Department of Energy initiative.
Barnard emphasized the importance of taking action. “This is a race, and Washington needs to get in the running,” said Barnard. “If we don’t signal that we are open for business and ready to host these advanced facilities, that investment and those jobs will go to states that are hungrier for them.”
Klicker said the initiative could be located in the 16th Legislative District, leveraging the Tri-Cities’ strengths in workforce readiness and supply chains.
“The 16th District has the land, the infrastructure and the community support to make this a reality,” said Klicker. “It makes zero sense for Washington state to sit on its hands while the federal government looks for a place to build the future of energy.”
The proposed campuses aim to increase carbon-free electricity, manage used nuclear fuel effectively and provide power for data centers and manufacturing.
The joint memorial has been referred to the House Technology, Economic Development and Veterans Committee. If adopted, it will be sent to Gov. Ferguson, the Secretary of Energy and Washington state’s congressional delegation.
