LANSING, Mich., March 4, 2025 — State Reps. Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph) and Pauline Wendzel (R-Watervliet) testified today on a bill package before the House Energy Committee to advance nuclear and hydrogen energy production in Michigan. Introduced alongside Reps. Mike McFall (D-Hazel Park), Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills), Jamie Thompson (R-Brownstown Twp.) and Greg VanWoerkom (R-Norton Shores), House Bills 4124–29 are a bipartisan effort to establish the state as a national leader in clean, reliable energy technology. This package is a reintroduction from last term.

“Southwest Michigan is becoming the epicenter of America’s nuclear renaissance — home to both the first decommissioned nuclear plant, Palisades, set to be revived later this year, and the first small modular reactors to be constructed, which will begin operation in 2030,” stated Rep. Andrews. “This is a historic moment for our state, offering a unique opportunity for Michigan to lead the way in clean, reliable energy and meet our energy goals. But reaching that future will require not just technological innovation but also a well-trained workforce, supportive policies and strategic investments.

“This package will help advance nuclear technology and build the talent pipeline that will power Michigan’s energy future. By creating educational opportunities in the nuclear and hydrogen energy fields and providing pathways for students to stay, grow and build their careers right here at home, we’re positioning Michigan at the forefront of energy innovation and workforce development, securing a prosperous future for our state.”

The bills take crucial action to grow Michigan’s nuclear and hydrogen energy.

  • House Bill 4124, sponsored by Wendzel, would create a tax credit for research and development expenses tied to the design, development or improvement of advanced nuclear reactors.
  • House Bill 4125, sponsored by McFall, would establish a scholarship initiative providing direct grants or tax credits, or both, to in-state and out-of-state graduates who commit to employment at a new or existing nuclear or hydrogen energy facility for at least three years.
  • House Bill 4127, sponsored by Thompson, would define advanced nuclear reactors in state law.
  • House Bill 4128, sponsored by VanWoerkom, would create tax credits for small modular reactor generated power.
  • House Bill 4129, sponsored by Andrews, and House Bill 4126, sponsored by Steckloff, would establish a grant program to award funds to colleges and universities in Michigan that establish or expand educational programs for degrees or credentials that support the nuclear industry, the hydrogen industry or both.

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