Nuclear Waste Informed Consent Act

# Nuclear Waste Informed Consent Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the Department of Energy to obtain written agreements from state governors, local governments, and Native American tribes before spending money from the Nuclear Waste Fund on radioactive waste disposal projects. Specifically, any state hosting a nuclear waste repository, nearby communities that would be affected, communities along transportation routes where nuclear waste would be shipped, and relevant Native American tribes would all need to sign off on the project. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects Nevada, which has been the target of proposed nuclear waste storage projects, as well as any other state that might host a nuclear repository in the future. It also impacts local governments and Native American tribes in areas where nuclear waste could be stored or transported.

The key requirement is that these parties must give their formal consent before federal money can be spent—essentially giving communities a veto power over such projects. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. The bill remains pending and has not advanced further in the legislative process.