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By
Andrew Hensel | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he is not opposed
to a measure that would seek to lift a moratorium on future
nuclear power projects in Illinois, but said "the devil's in the
details."
Illinois is one of the top states in the nation for nuclear
energy. However, there is a hold on constructing new-generation
facilities in the state.
The Senate passed Senate Bill 76 last week. If passed by the
House and approved by the governor, the measure would delete
language in state statute that provides that no construction
shall commence on any new nuclear power plant located within the
state.
State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, released a statement after the
Senate voted 39-13 to pass the measure.
"My legislation is a bipartisan, pro-jobs bill that will help
ensure that Illinois is able to effectively compete with other
states who are beginning to understand the pivotal role nuclear
energy can play in relieving growing energy grid reliability and
resiliency pressures," Rezin said.
On Tuesday, Pritzker was asked about possibly expanding nuclear
energy in Illinois.
"Banning nuclear entirely in a world where its become much
safer, things are smaller, less prone to an accident, more
likely for us to be able to maintain them for a long time. That
is something worth consideration," Pritzker said. "The devil's
in the details and we want to make sure we are not just opening
this up to nuclear everywhere or every type of nuclear."
Illinois is one of only 12 states with a moratorium banning any
future construction of nuclear plants.
Pritzker said he was not sure what would happen with the measure
but wanted to make sure whatever happens is done with safety in
mind.
"I don't know where that bill will go this session, but I am not
opposed to it as if I'm dead set against any nuclear," Pritzker
said. "I just want, if we are going to consider it, it's got to
be safe."
The measure is in the Illinois House awaiting further action.
Andrew Hensel reports on issues in Chicago and
Statewide. He has been with The Center Square News since April
of 2021 and was previously with The Joliet Slammers.
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