State Senator Sue Rezin (R-Morris) has been recognized as one of only two “Super Nuclear State Champions” in the nation by the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), honoring her longstanding leadership and advocacy for nuclear energy policy in Illinois and across the country.
The recognition was presented during NEI’s Nuclear Energy Policy Forum in Washington, D.C., where state leaders, policymakers, and energy stakeholders gathered to discuss how states are advancing nuclear energy deployment and strengthening the policy frameworks needed to support future development.
Senator Rezin also participated in the forum’s “States Moving from Vision to Action” panel, where state officials discussed efforts to expand reliable, clean energy production and meet growing energy demand through nuclear power.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” said Senator Rezin. “For years, I have worked to advance policies that protect and expand nuclear energy because it is essential to our state and nation’s energy future. Nuclear power provides reliable, around-the-clock energy, supports thousands of high-quality jobs, and helps keep electricity affordable for families and businesses.”
NEI recognized Senator Rezin for her continued leadership on nuclear policy, including her efforts to champion legislation, educate communities about the importance of nuclear energy, and help position Illinois as a national leader in the industry.
Senator Rezin has been one of Illinois’ leading advocates for nuclear energy policy reform. In 2021, she played a key role in efforts to help prevent the closure of two Illinois nuclear power plants that help maintain grid reliability and support local economies.
In 2023, Senator Rezin successfully passed legislation to end Illinois’ moratorium on the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs), helping open the door for next-generation nuclear technologies and future energy investment in the state. She also helped lead the effort to ultimately repeal Illinois’ longstanding moratorium on new large-scale nuclear construction.
“As energy demand continues to increase, states must take a realistic and responsible approach to ensuring reliability and affordability,” continued Senator Rezin. “Illinois has the opportunity to be a national leader in next-generation nuclear energy, and I will continue working to advance policies that support growth, strengthen our grid, and protect ratepayers.”
Senator Rezin serves as a member of the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee and co-chairs the National Conference of State Legislatures Energy Supply Task Force.