CO SB045

Creates the Colorado Nuclear Workforce Development and Education Council within the Colorado School of Mines to address workforce demand in the nuclear energy sector

Establishes a grant program for state higher education institutions, local district colleges, and area technical colleges to develop or expand nuclear engineering degree programs, certificate programs, and courses

Funded entirely by private gifts, grants, and donations with no general fund appropriations; grant awards cannot begin until the cash fund reaches at least $500,000

Council consists of 11 members appointed by the Governor and legislative leaders, including representatives from nuclear/clean energy companies, labor organizations, coal transition communities, and federal laboratories

Requires annual reporting to legislative committees on grant program implementation and fund usage; council is repealed September 1, 2033, subject to sunset review