Barnard, Klicker urges Gov. Ferguson to signal Washington’s intent for federal nuclear hub

OLYMPIA – Two Eastern Washington lawmakers are warning that the state risks losing billions in federal investment if it fails to compete for a next-generation nuclear energy hub.

State Representatives Stephanie Barnard (R-Pasco) and Mark Klicker (R-Walla Walla), introduced House Joint Memorial 4016 this week. The measure urges Gov. Bob Ferguson to formally signal Washington’s interest in hosting a “Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus,” a massive Department of Energy (DOE) initiative.

The proposed campus would manage the entire nuclear fuel cycle—from production to recycling—while hosting advanced reactors and data centers. Lawmakers say the 16th Legislative District, encompassing the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas, is the ideal location due to its existing nuclear workforce and infrastructure.

“This is a race, and Washington needs to get in the running,” Barnard said. “If we don’t signal that we are open for business, that investment and those jobs will go to states that are hungrier for them.”

The initiative aims to address the growing demand for carbon-free electricity fueled by massive power requirements for manufacturing and technology. Klicker emphasized that the project would stabilize the energy grid while providing “long-term, family-wage jobs.”

HJM 4016 requests that the governor direct state agencies to prepare a competitive response to the DOE, leveraging the region’s unique supply chains. The measure has been referred to the House Technology, Economic Development, and Veterans Committee.

Photo (L-R) Rep. Stephanie Barnard and Rep. Mark Klicker

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Elkhorn Media Group