Legislation aimed at supporting the development of small modular nuclear reactors in rural Arizona has advanced in the state legislature. House Bill 2795, which recently passed a House committee, would limit the power of county zoning ordinances to block these reactors if they have met federal safety, permitting, and public notice requirements.
The bill is part of the House Republican Majority Plan to promote economic growth, strengthen rural areas, and provide reliable energy for families and businesses across Arizona.
“Advanced nuclear reactors are coming, and we need to be prepared,” said Majority Leader Michael Carbone. “We need these projects to keep up with China and compete on national security. Educating the public remains the number one issue, but I believe when members of the public see the facts, they will understand the substantial benefits these projects can bring. Small modular reactors offer safe, clean, reliable power with high-paying jobs and opportunities for economic development—especially in our rural areas. HB 2795 ensures that when federal safety standards are met and the public has had its say, local zoning cannot be used to block these critical projects that can secure our future energy supply.”
Supporters of small modular reactors point out that they are designed with enhanced safety features compared to older nuclear plants. These features include passive systems intended to prevent meltdowns without human intervention. Federal agencies must certify reactor designs before construction begins; developers must also complete extensive reviews such as early site permitting and provide opportunities for public comment. The proposed legislation would apply only after all federal requirements have been satisfied and documentation has been given to county supervisors.
“As Arizona grows, our demand for power will keep rising,” Carbone added. “The Majority Plan focuses on maximizing our ability to generate safe, reliable, and dependable power as affordably and abundantly as possible. Blocking new technologies puts these objectives at risk, and this bill makes sure that our public zoning process cannot be weaponized to block these new technologies.”
Carbone was elected in 2023 as a Republican representative for Arizona’s 25th House District.
House Bill 2795 now moves forward for consideration by the full House.
