Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office has announced a major legal challenge against the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, accusing the federal agency of illegally blocking the development of advanced nuclear technologies.
Uthmeier’s office says those technologies could revolutionize energy production in America.
"For decades, Washington has made promises about nuclear energy—but then throws up roadblocks when real innovation comes along," Uthmeier said. "Florida is done waiting. We're taking action to unleash the full potential of safe nuclear technology, strengthen our energy independence and secure cleaner water and air in our state."
Uthmeier
| File photo
The AG’s office says Florida faces significant challenges in meeting the energy needs of its residents with its rapidly growing population and increasing electricity demand.
Last year, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1645, which directs the Public Service Commission to study the feasibility of using advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), to meet the state's power needs.
However, the NRC's interpretation of its licensing authority over SMRs has created long delays, staggering costs, and hindered Florida's ability to develop nuclear power to meet its growing energy needs. The regulatory roadblock not only impedes the state's energy goals but also affects Florida's ability to exercise its lawful authority to regulate and license these technologies safely and efficiently.
The complaint argues that the NRC's refusal to modernize its regulatory framework is unlawful and harms states' efforts to meet surging energy demand with clean alternatives. Florida and its partner states are asking the court to vacate the NRC's illegal actions and require the agency to adopt reasonable standards that reflect current science and safety advances.
Advanced reactors, including SMRs, are already being explored in Florida and other states for use in industrial settings, rural communities, and areas with fragile electric grids. These technologies offer safer designs, faster construction, lower costs, and reduced environmental risks compared to traditional nuclear plants.
By taking legal action, Florida is standing up for innovation, energy reliability, and the American people, ensuring that the state can explore all avenues to meet its energy needs.
The states of Florida, Louisiana, Texas and Utah as well as the Arizona state legislature, Last Energy Inc., Deep Fission Inc. and Valar Atomics Inc. filed the complaint in December in federal court in Texas. They filed an amended complaint April 7.
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas case number 6:24-cv-00507