In 2025, forty-five U.S. states introduced more than 350 nuclear-related bills and enacted sixty such bills. This legislative activity follows a trend from 2024, when forty-three U.S. states introduced similar legislation.

The federal government maintains exclusive authority over radiological safety and reactor licensing within the United States. However, individual states hold purview over other aspects of nuclear energy, including cost recovery, siting decisions, public consent processes, and workforce development initiatives.

Nuclear power contributes 19 percent of the total U.S. electricity supply and accounts for 55 percent of the nation's carbon-free generation. There are ninety-four nuclear reactors currently operating across twenty-eight U.S. states.

Several states have taken specific actions to support nuclear energy. Texas and Tennessee have both established dedicated nuclear development funds. Virginia implemented a regulatory reduction to improve state permitting times. This overhaul resulted in a reduction of permitting times by up to 70 percent. Additionally, Virginia has established a nuclear innovation hub.

Public opinion polls indicate support for nuclear power, with 77 percent of Americans expressing favor for it. A separate poll showed 58 percent of Americans were in favor of having a nuclear power plant located near their home.

Why It Matters

The legislative efforts by individual states illustrate a coordinated push to advance nuclear energy across the U.S. This activity occurs despite the federal government's primary role in reactor licensing and safety. The state-level initiatives focus on areas such as funding and regulatory efficiency, which are within state jurisdiction.