HI HB1516

Establishes a nuclear energy commission within the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to study nuclear energy generation in Hawaii.

Commission membership includes the DBEDT director (chair), three nuclear energy experts appointed by the governor, the director of health, two University of Hawaii experts (one on nuclear energy, one on nuclear waste disposal), a U.S. Navy nuclear energy expert, a U.S. Department of Energy representative, and a Nature Conservancy representative.

Commission shall study the feasibility of nuclear facilities in Hawaii, evaluate environmental and economic risks and benefits, and examine strategies for safely disposing, storing, and reprocessing nuclear waste.

Requires the commission to submit findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2025 regular session convenes.

Commission terminates on June 30, 2025.