The bill establishes a framework for studying the benefits of nuclear energy in Washington State, particularly focusing on the deployment of small modular reactors. It recognizes nuclear energy as a safe, reliable, and nonemitting source of electricity, which is essential for meeting the state's goal of providing all electricity from nonemitting or renewable resources by January 1, 2045. The legislature aims to explore how expanded nuclear energy can contribute to a decarbonized grid, support economic growth through job creation, and potentially replace coal-fired power plants with nuclear facilities.

To facilitate this study, the joint legislative audit and review committee is tasked with contracting a third party to conduct the "commercial liftoff for energy from advanced nuclear" study. This study will include recommendations on maximizing the benefits of nuclear energy and small modular reactors, as well as an analysis of workforce development opportunities. The committee is required to report its findings to the legislature by July 1, 2027, and the joint committee on energy supply, energy conservation, and energy resilience will review the report and allow for public comment before December 1, 2027.