WA HB2090

Department of Commerce must develop and publish a nuclear power strategic framework by December 15, 2026, to supplement the state energy strategy, contingent upon receiving non-state funding

Framework must identify state objectives for new fission nuclear power generation, outline processes for financing, siting, permitting, tribal consultation, and workforce issues, and assess challenges and opportunities

Policy recommendations must consider expediting state permitting to avoid redundancy with federal regulations, providing preference for nuclear siting at the Hanford site or former coal/natural gas plant locations, and mitigating financial risks

Framework must evaluate strategic partnerships with nearby states to reduce costs through economies of scale and identify anticipated impacts on economic well-being, workforce development, and electric sector reliability/affordability

Current state energy strategy (last updated 2020) is cited as outdated, with approximately 19% of Washington's electricity still coming from emitting resources that must be replaced to meet the 2030 greenhouse gas neutral and 2045 nonemitting goals