SE Valley Times

Governor Katie Hobbs has vetoed HB2774, a bipartisan bill aimed at reducing bureaucratic obstacles for large industrial energy users to build small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) near existing facilities. The legislation sought to support rural Arizona by attracting businesses like data centers and advanced manufacturing facilities, which could create jobs and generate property tax revenue in often overlooked areas.

Majority Leader Michael Carbone expressed disappointment with the veto, stating that "Governor Hobbs’ veto misses the mark." He emphasized that the bill was not solely about SMRs but also about helping rural communities attract new businesses. Carbone noted that access to energy is a significant barrier for these communities and that large tech companies are increasingly interested in securing their own nuclear energy sources.

The bill offered streamlined energy permitting benefits for large energy users willing to locate in rural counties with populations of 500,000 or fewer. This approach aimed to direct job creators toward underserved areas. Carbone argued that while new nuclear technology is still emerging, employers like data centers are expanding now and need clarity on future energy access for investment decisions.

Carbone criticized Governor Hobbs' decision, suggesting it sends a message of contentment with the status quo as jobs and revenues continue to flow to central Arizona. He remains committed to supporting rural communities and plans to revisit the issue in the next legislative session.

Michael Carbone serves as a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 25, covering parts of Yuma, Maricopa, and La Paz Counties. He is also the House Majority Leader.

Information from this article can be found here.