Lamar Smith: “I thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Weber) for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, S. 97, the Nuclear Energy Innovation…”

“I thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Weber) for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, S. 97, the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act, directs the Department of Energy to enable the American nuclear power industry to conduct civilian nuclear energy research and development that will advance our leadership in nuclear technology. While we are considering the Senate version of this bill today, I would like to credit the author of the original legislation, Energy Subcommittee Chairman Randy Weber, his primary cosponsors, and Science, Space, and Technology Committee Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson for their years of leadership on this issue. The originating Science, Space, and Technology Committee legislation was developed over 4 years of collaboration, including hearings, coordination with DOE and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and countless meetings with stakeholders. Every effort has been made to ensure this legislation will provide the resources necessary to more effectively and efficiently develop the next generation of nuclear power. Advanced nuclear energy technology is the best way to make reliable, safe, and emission-free electricity available throughout the modern and developing world. The legislation authorizes the research facilities and infrastructure necessary to help development of new, advanced nuclear reactors here at home, maintaining American leadership in the global nuclear technology sector.…”