05-05-2025
Rep. Harris' bill to make Texas ‘Nuclear Capitol of the World' passes State House
AUSTIN, Texas (KETK) – The Texas House of Representatives has passed East Texas State Representative Cody Harris' bill to support the growth of the state's nuclear energy industry.
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HB 14 was passed by the Texas House on April 22 with 125 yea's, 21 nay's and 2 present. The bill would start a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office to 'lead the transition to a balanced energy future by advancing innovative nuclear energy generation technologies while delivering safe, reliable, and clean energy solutions that address the state's growing demand.'
The office would provide strategic leadership for a new system of advanced nuclear reactors in Texas by collaborating with local leaders and providing recommendations to Gov. Greg Abbott and the State legislature.
'As the author of this bill, I've worked hard to make sure Texas leads the way in advanced nuclear energy—our future depends on it,' Harris said on April 22. 'HB 14 sets the stage for bold innovation, high-paying jobs, and energy that's reliable, clean, and made right here in Texas. We're not just keeping the lights on—we're lighting the path forward. We're making Texas the Nuclear Capital of the World!'
To help the proposed office achieve its goal of leading the transition to a 'balanced energy future' they'll be able to provide reimbursement grants from a new Texas advanced nuclear development fund.
'Glad to see HB 14 pass the House,' Abbott said. 'This bill is key to diversifying our energy industry, expanding electric generation capacity, developing our workforce and ensuring Texas is the headquarters of the nuclear renaissance. Thanks to Rep. [Harris] for leading on this issue!'
The bill's development grant would cover up to $12.5 million in expenses, while another advanced nuclear construction reimbursement grant would cover expenses up to $200 million.
After a second record vote on April 23, HB 14 was referred to the Texas Senate Committee on Business & Commerce along with it's Senate companion bill SB 2060.
To learn more about HB 14, visit the Texas Legislature online.
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