HB 1481

This bill directs the joint legislative audit and review committee to contract with a third party to conduct a study called the "commercial liftoff for energy from advanced nuclear" study, examining the benefits of nuclear energy and small modular reactor deployment in Washington State. The study, due July 1, 2027, must include recommendations for maximizing nuclear energy benefits including workforce development and job creation, and specifically examine the feasibility of replacing coal-fired power plants with nuclear facilities. Following the study's completion, the joint committee on energy supply, energy conservation, and energy resilience must review the findings and hold a public comment period before December 1, 2027, as Washington prepares to meet its 2045 requirement for all electricity to come from non-emitting or renewable sources.