This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 2040, proposes appropriating $500,000 from the state's general fund in fiscal year 2026 to the Pollution Control Agency for the preparation of a report assessing the viability and suitability of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in Minnesota. The report must be submitted by January 15, 2026, to relevant legislative committees.

Key Areas of the Report:

1. Environmental Monitoring and Protection – Recommendations on:

   • Water quality monitoring and standards exceeding federal requirements.
   • Waste storage and management practices aligning with or exceeding current regulations.
   • Water appropriation, consumption, and recycling requirements.
   • Environmental justice considerations.
   • Enhancement of existing environmental regulations.
   • Ecosystem protection measures.

2. Infrastructure and Operational Requirements – Covering:

   • Grid integration and associated costs.
   • Regulatory framework adaptations.
   • Emergency response infrastructure.
   • Public health monitoring systems.
   • Baseline health assessment and long-term health surveillance.
   • Healthcare workforce development.

3. Economic Viability Assessment – Including:

   • Power purchase agreements and public-private partnerships.
   • Rate impacts on customer classes.
   • Economic effects on existing utilities and communities.
   • Revenue generation potential.
   • Community benefit and ownership models.

4. Community Engagement and Benefit Structures – Exploring:

   • Cooperative ownership models.
   • Revenue-sharing mechanisms.
   • Local business protection measures.
   • Rural development opportunities.

The report must provide specific, actionable recommendations, including any proposed legislation needed for implementation, and must not include recommendations for additional studies.