New Jersey Lifts Radioactive Waste Rule to Spur Nuclear Plant Construction

Governor Sherrill signs bill allowing spent fuel storage, paving way for new nuclear power facilities

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:05am

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A minimalist illustration composed of bold, geometric shapes in shades of blue, yellow, and red, conceptually representing the state of New Jersey's shift towards nuclear power generation as part of its energy strategy.New Jersey's embrace of nuclear power aims to secure a cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy future for the state.Salem Today

New Jersey has taken a significant step towards expanding its nuclear power capacity by signing legislation that lifts restrictions on the handling of radioactive waste. The new law empowers the state's Department of Environmental Protection to approve permits for waste storage practices that comply with Nuclear Regulatory Commission rules, removing a key barrier to the construction of new nuclear plants.

Why it matters

This move is aimed at addressing New Jersey's growing energy needs and diversifying its power sources. With nuclear power accounting for over 40% of the state's energy supply, the new legislation is expected to facilitate the development of additional nuclear facilities, helping to ensure a steady and abundant power supply for the state.

The details

The bill signing, which took place at the Salem Nuclear Power Plant, was praised by Democratic lawmakers, utilities, labor unions, and business groups. The legislation also establishes a 14-member panel to review financing, supply chains, regulatory frameworks, and other topics related to potential nuclear plant construction. New Jersey had previously blocked new nuclear plants due to a requirement for a Nuclear Regulatory Commission-approved system to dispose of spent fuel rods, which the state now considers an 'outdated standard'.

  • On April 9, 2026, Governor Mikie Sherrill signed the legislation lifting the restrictions on radioactive waste handling.
  • The bill signing took place at the Salem Nuclear Power Plant in Lower Alloways Creek, New Jersey.

The players

Governor Mikie Sherrill

The Governor of New Jersey who signed the legislation to lift the restrictions on radioactive waste handling, paving the way for new nuclear power plant construction in the state.

PSEG

The energy company that operates the Salem and Hope Creek nuclear power plants, which together supply more than 40% of New Jersey's energy.

LIUNA

The Laborers' International Union of North America, a labor union that supported the legislation.

IBEW Local 94

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 94, a labor union that supported the legislation.

New Jersey Business & Industry Association

A business group that supported the legislation.

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What they’re saying

“By lifting outdated barriers and bringing together leaders across government, industry and labor, we're setting the stage for our state to pursue new advanced nuclear power. This will help New Jersey secure a stronger, cleaner, more affordable, and reliable energy future – while keeping the state at the forefront of innovation, job creation and economic growth.”

— Governor Mikie Sherrill

“This bill removes the red tape and says New Jersey is open for business for nuclear energy, and IBEW applauds the governor's continued leadership because we know more power means lower bills for New Jersey residents.”

— Joseph Egan, President, New Jersey State Electrical Workers Construction Division

What’s next

The 14-member panel assembled by Governor Sherrill will now begin a review of financing, supply chains, regulatory frameworks, and other topics related to potential nuclear plant construction in New Jersey.

The takeaway

New Jersey's decision to lift the restrictions on radioactive waste handling represents a significant shift in the state's energy policy, paving the way for the potential construction of new nuclear power plants. This move is aimed at addressing the state's growing energy needs, diversifying its power sources, and ensuring a reliable and affordable energy future for its residents.