In an effort to strengthen Illinois’ energy future and meet rising electricity demand, Illinois Senate Minority Deputy Leader Sue Rezin (R-Morris) has filed legislation to streamline the siting and permitting process for new small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs).
Senate Bill 2681, modeled after a new bipartisan law in Wisconsin, would require all applicable state agencies to take final action on a permit application for an SMR within 150 days of it being deemed complete. If no action is taken within that timeframe, and no valid extension is granted, the application would be considered approved.
“Small modular reactors represent one of the most promising solutions to Illinois’ growing energy reliability challenges,” said Senator Rezin. “However, we won’t realize their full potential if critical projects are stuck in endless permitting delays. My legislation ensures state agencies act in a timely manner so we can move forward with safe, clean nuclear energy.”
Under the bill, state agencies would be allowed one extension of up to 150 days for good cause. After that, if no decision is made, the application will be automatically approved. The bill explicitly states that it does not alter or preempt any federal safety regulations or rules.
Senator Rezin, a long-time advocate for nuclear power and a member of the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee, has filed multiple pieces of legislation, including lifting the state’s ban on new large nuclear reactors, to position Illinois as a national leader in next-generation nuclear technology.
“This bill sends a strong message that Illinois is open for innovation and serious about securing reliable, carbon-free power,” continued Senator Rezin. “If we want to keep jobs, attract new industry, and avoid future blackouts, we need to get serious about building safe, clean, and reliable nuclear energy again.”
Senate Bill 2681 now awaits assignment to a Senate committee.