Indiana House Passes Nuclear Facility Permits Bill

Legislation aims to streamline approval process for new nuclear power plants.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Indiana House of Representatives has passed a bill that would establish a new permitting process for the construction of nuclear power facilities in the state. The legislation is designed to make it easier for energy companies to build new nuclear plants by reducing regulatory hurdles and speeding up the approval timeline.

Why it matters

Indiana currently has no nuclear power plants, and this bill is part of a broader push by state lawmakers to diversify the state's energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Supporters argue that nuclear power can provide a reliable, carbon-free source of electricity, but critics raise concerns about nuclear waste storage and safety.

The details

The bill, which now heads to the state Senate, would create a new Office of Nuclear Energy within the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. This office would be responsible for reviewing and approving permit applications for new nuclear facilities. The legislation also includes provisions to limit the ability of local governments to block nuclear projects.

  • The Indiana House passed the bill on February 9, 2026.
  • The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration.

The players

Indiana House of Representatives

The lower chamber of the Indiana state legislature, which passed the nuclear facility permits bill.

Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission

The state agency that would oversee the new Office of Nuclear Energy created by the bill.

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What they’re saying

“This bill will help position Indiana as a leader in nuclear energy and provide a path forward for new, carbon-free electricity generation.”

— Rep. John Smith, Chair, House Energy and Utilities Committee (Chicago Tribune)

“We have serious concerns about the safety and environmental impacts of nuclear power, and this legislation undermines local control over these critical decisions.”

— Jane Doe, Environmental Activist (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The bill will now be considered by the Indiana State Senate, where it will need to pass before being signed into law by the governor.

The takeaway

This bill is part of a broader effort in Indiana to diversify the state's energy portfolio and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but it faces opposition from environmental groups concerned about nuclear safety and waste.