WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) has introduced three bipartisan bills designed to advance America’s nuclear energy strategy and expand its role in international energy cooperation.
“To lower costs for consumers and combat climate change, the U.S. and the rest of the world need to be able to rely on sources of clean and abundant power, including nuclear energy,” said Senator Coons. “Right now, however, barriers that we have erected for domestic and international nuclear development stunt our energy independence here at home and give China and Russia the upper hand abroad. I’m pushing for these three bills because I know how important it is for the United States to be on the cutting edge of clean, safe, affordable nuclear power.”
The legislative package includes:
The Efficient Nuclear Licensing Hearings Act, introduced with Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, would eliminate the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s mandatory hearing requirement for new reactor applications—a mandate dating back to the Atomic Energy Act of 1954. The bill’s sponsors say it would allow for a more efficient licensing process while preserving public input
The International Nuclear Energy Act, co-authored with Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho, calls for a new office to coordinate export strategies and financing for nuclear projects. It also promotes regulatory alignment, nuclear safeguards, and international cooperation. The bill proposes a Cabinet-level summit every two years to bring together industry and government leaders to discuss nuclear safety and innovation
The International Nuclear Energy Financing Act, sponsored with Sen. Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania, would direct the U.S. Treasury to work with global financial institutions to support American nuclear energy exports. The goal is to unlock more investment, grow the sector, and create jobs in the U.S.