Senator Declan O'Scanlon (R-13) released the following statement regarding yesterday's bill signing to update state permitting rules to expand nuclear generation in an effort to lower energy costs in New Jersey.

“I’m proud to have co-sponsored this commonsense legislation to update DEP permitting so we can responsibly pursue nuclear projects that increase our energy output and help control rising costs,” said Sen. O’Scanlon. “New Jersey already depends heavily on nuclear power, and this action ends the state's de facto moratorium on building new nuclear power plants to expand reliable in-state generation and lower energy costs.”

Governor Sherrill signed S-3870 into law, requiring the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to consider both the storage and disposal of radioactive material when reviewing applications for nuclear facilities, addressing a technical gap in current State law that makes approvals difficult even when projects meet federal safety requirements.

This change would align New Jersey law with Nuclear Regulatory Commission standards, ensuring radioactive waste is stored and disposed in a manner that protects public safety and the environment.

Click here to read the full text of the legislation.