SB 995

This bill would exempt small modular reactor (SMR) energy facilities from Oregon's current requirement that nuclear power plant siting certificates must be approved by a statewide vote of the electorate. The bill defines SMRs as advanced nuclear reactors with a capacity of 300 megawatts or less that can be factory-built and assembled on-site, potentially in combination with other reactors at the same location. By removing the voter approval requirement specifically for these smaller nuclear facilities while maintaining it for larger nuclear plants, the bill would streamline the regulatory process for developing SMR projects in Oregon. The bill itself will be referred to Oregon voters at the next general election for their approval or rejection before taking effect.