Legislation introduced by Representatives Tom Mehaffie and Elizabeth Fiedler aims to update the fee structure for nuclear power plant inspections in Pennsylvania, according to an April 23 announcement. The proposed changes would ensure the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has sufficient resources to inspect all current, future, and closed nuclear plants across the state.
The issue is important because regular inspections help prevent accidents and protect communities near these facilities. The last adjustment to inspection fees was made in 2014, prompting lawmakers to call for updates that reflect inflation and current operational needs.
“Regular, comprehensive inspections from state and federal professionals not only create layers of protection to prevent accidents and safeguard communities, but also reinforce the public’s trust in this important source of baseload power,” Mehaffie said.
Pennsylvania currently has four operating nuclear power plants. A fifth facility is expected when Three Mile Island restarts as the Crane Clean Energy Center in summer 2027. Fiedler said updating policies is necessary: “The world and economy have changed a lot since 2014 and our policies should reflect that. Adjusting these fees to keep up with inflation ensures that the DEP can do its job effectively, providing necessary oversight of these facilities so they can provide us with reliable, clean energy for years to come.”
House Bill 2450 would set new fees so that DEP can maintain thorough oversight of environmental radiation around sites as well as conduct on-site safety observations. The bill has been referred to the House Energy Committee for consideration.
