A resolution designating December 2, 2025, as "World Nuclear Energy Day".
- Bill Number
- S.Res. 536
- Origin Chamber
- Senate
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Energy
- Status
- Passed Senate
- Latest Action
- 2025-12-08: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S8533; text: CR S8532)
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-13T10:33:11Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This Senate Resolution (S. Res. 536) aims to recognize the historical and ongoing contributions of nuclear energy to clean, reliable power generation, national security, and global innovation. It designates December 2, 2025, as "World Nuclear Energy Day" to honor key milestones in nuclear technology and encourage its safe, peaceful use.
Key Provisions
- Historical Recognition: Highlights two milestones— the first controlled nuclear chain reaction on December 2, 1942, by Enrico Fermi's team, and the opening of the world's first commercial nuclear power plant on December 2, 1957, in Pennsylvania.
- Current Contributions: Notes that nuclear energy provides nearly 18% of U.S. electricity and 43% of carbon-free electricity; employs over 70,000 directly and supports 180,000 secondary jobs; creates additional jobs (250 per 100 nuclear jobs); contributes $63.8 billion annually to the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP); and supports the U.S. Navy's nuclear-powered fleet.
- Broader Benefits: Emphasizes nuclear energy's role in space exploration, grid reliability (as a baseload power source—steady, continuous electricity), resilience to weather events, and U.S. leadership in global energy diplomacy for peaceful nuclear uses.
- Resolution Actions:
- Designates December 2, 2025, as "World Nuclear Energy Day."
- Celebrates nuclear energy's role in sustainable power.
- Honors scientists, engineers, and innovators.
- Commends global efforts for safe nuclear utilization.
- Encourages domestic and international cooperation in nuclear research, development, and implementation.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or regulations. It serves as a symbolic expression of the Senate's views rather than enforceable legislation.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: May indirectly support agencies like the Department of Energy and Department of Defense by raising awareness of nuclear energy's role in energy security and national defense, potentially influencing future funding or policy discussions.
- On Citizens: Could increase public awareness of nuclear energy's benefits, such as job creation and reliable power, but has no direct effects on daily life or services.
- On International Relations: Promotes U.S. leadership in peaceful nuclear technology, encouraging global collaboration and diplomacy, which might strengthen ties with allies on energy and non-proliferation efforts.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Nuclear Industry Workers and Companies: Over 70,000 direct employees and related businesses benefit from the recognition of their sector's economic and innovative contributions.
- Scientists, Engineers, and Innovators: Honored for advancing nuclear technology, potentially boosting morale and support for research.
- Government and Military: U.S. agencies involved in energy, defense (e.g., nuclear Navy), and space exploration gain visibility for their reliance on nuclear power.
- International Partners: Countries collaborating on nuclear technologies may see enhanced opportunities for joint projects and peaceful applications.
- General Public and Environmental Groups: Affected symbolically through promotion of nuclear energy as a carbon-free, reliable option amid climate discussions.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: As a simple resolution agreed to by the Senate, it requires no presidential approval and has no binding force, aligning with Congress's constitutional power to express opinions on policy matters without altering laws.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support (sponsored by senators from both parties), signaling broad consensus on nuclear energy's value in energy independence, clean power, and security. It could influence future debates on energy policy without creating controversy, as it focuses on positive, historical aspects rather than divisive issues like waste management or safety regulations.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (20)
Sen. Warner, Mark R. [D-VA], Sen. Tillis, Thomas [R-NC], Sen. Capito, Shelley Moore [R-WV], Sen. Curtis, John R. [R-UT], Sen. Blackburn, Marsha [R-TN], Sen. Marshall, Roger [R-KS], Sen. Young, Todd [R-IN], Sen. Graham, Lindsey [R-SC], Sen. Cassidy, Bill [R-LA], Sen. McCormick, David [R-PA], Sen. Crapo, Mike [R-ID], Sen. Justice, James C. [R-WV], Sen. Lummis, Cynthia M. [R-WY], Sen. Hagerty, Bill [R-TN], Sen. Husted, Jon [R-OH], Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL], Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ], Sen. Coons, Christopher A. [D-DE], Sen. Duckworth, Tammy [D-IL], Sen. King, Angus S., Jr. [I-ME]
Recent Actions
- 2025-12-08: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S8533; text: CR S8532)
- 2025-12-08: Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
- 2025-12-08: Introduced in Senate
Bill Versions
- Designating December 2, 2025, as World Nuclear Energy Day. — issued 2025-12-08 — PDF (3 pages)