Bill · S. 4495· Senate(119-S-4495)
Reactors at Risk Act of 2026
- Introduced
- 5/12/2026
- Last activity
- 5/12/2026 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.
- Sponsored by
- Edward Markey
- Cosponsors
- - 1 - 0
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
The "Reactors at Risk Act of 2026" requires the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Energy for Nuclear Security to submit a joint report to Congress. This report must assess the dangers posed by nuclear reactors located in areas that might experience armed conflict. It focuses on existing reactors or those scheduled for completion within 10 years in specific high-risk regions. These regions include areas with recent conflicts, such as Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as contested areas like Taiwan or between India and Pakistan. Additionally, the report must identify steps the United States and its allies can take to mitigate these risks.
Yes· 3 of 5
Does this strengthen ties with allied countries?+2
The bill requires identifying steps the United States and its allies can take together to mitigate nuclear risks.
Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?+2
The bill seeks to mitigate the risks posed by nuclear reactors in conflict zones to ensure the safety of civilian populations.
Does this better protect the country from computer attacks?+1
The report assesses national security risks that include protection against physical and potential cyber-physical threats to nuclear infrastructure.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Improved Safety and Security Assessment: The report aims to assess dangers to the national security of the United States, the interests of allies, and the safety and security of civilian populations (Section 2(a)(1)). This could help protect people living near these reactors.
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Risk Mitigation Planning: The bill requires identifying steps that the United States or its allies can take to prevent, prepare for, and mitigate risks to national security and civilian populations (Section 2(a)(2)). This could lead to better preparation for potential conflicts involving nuclear facilities.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- No negative impacts are explicitly mentioned in the text.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Improves International Alliances+2Improves Cybersecurity Defense+1
- Environment Energy And Infrastructure
- Improves Environmental Protections+2
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Urban Residents+1
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Poverty Reduction+1
- 5/12/2026
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- Introduced in Senate
Jeff MerkleyDemocrat · Oregon