Cody Harris Wants Texas to be a Global Nuclear Energy Leader

State Rep. Cody Harris (R) has introduced House Bill 14 (HB 14), which positions Texas as the world leader in advanced nuclear energy. Announcing the bill on social media, state Rep. Harris emphasized the need for the United States to lead the "nuclear renaissance" and prevent China or Russia from dominating the future of nuclear technology.

"By stimulating advanced nuclear reactor deployment in Texas, we will deliver safe, reliable energy to Texans, establish Texas as the hub of nuclear innovation, and strengthen America’s position as the top exporter of nuclear tech," state Rep. Harris shared on X.

Though the specific provisions of HB 14 have yet to be released, the bill aligns with Texas’ growing interest in nuclear power as a solution to rising energy demands.

Last Energy, a Washington, D.C.-based startup, recently announced plans to build micro nuclear power plants in Haskell County, Texas, primarily to power data centers. The company has secured a 200-acre site and expects the first reactor to be operational by 2029. Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) has voiced his support for the project, reiterating the Lone Star state’s commitment to nuclear energy innovation.

Additionally, Texas has played a key role in nuclear research. The High-Temperature Teaching & Test Reactor (HT3R), a collaboration between the University of Texas of the Permian Basin and Los Alamos National Laboratory, is set to serve as a national hub for nuclear technology development.

State Rep. Harris also commented on the broader impact of HB 14, writing that "this is about energy security, economic growth, and national leadership. It’s time to make Texas the worldwide leader in nuclear development."