February 2, 2026 - Lt. Gov. Bedke co-chairs first meeting of Idaho Advanced Nuclear Energy Task Force

BOISE, IDAHO - Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke today co-chaired the first meeting of the Idaho Advanced Nuclear Energy Task Force with Idaho National Laboratory's Director, John Wagner, launching a statewide effort to strengthen Idaho's leadership in advanced nuclear energy.

"Idaho has long been at the center of nuclear innovation," Lt. Gov. Bedke said. "This task force brings together the expertise needed to ensure Idaho remains a national leader while prioritizing safety, economic growth and workforce development."

The Task Force was created by Governor Brad Little through Executive Order 2025-06 and is charged with providing recommendations to the governor on nuclear energy policy, innovation, deployment and workforce development. The group will also evaluate the feasibility and benefits of deploying advanced nuclear technologies in Idaho.

The meeting was held at the Idaho State Capitol and included leaders from state government, federal agencies, private industry, utilities, education, workforce development and tribal partners. Governor Little opened the meeting with remarks highlighting Idaho's partnership with INL and the state's role in national energy security.

Dr. Mike Goff, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy, provided an update on recent federal actions affecting nuclear energy and outlined funding opportunities to Idaho and INL.

Additional presentations focused on the Center for Used Fuel Research at INL, results from the Governor's Office for Energy and Mineral Resource's request for information and private sector input.

"Advanced nuclear energy means energy security, economic growth and high-paying jobs for Idahoans," Lt. Gov. Bedke added. "Our work is about positioning Idaho for the future while earning public trust every step of the way."

The task force established four working groups focused on policy, economic development and workforce, community engagement and project coordination. Public comment was accepted during the meeting.

The next meeting of the Idaho Advanced Nuclear Energy Task Force is scheduled for May 21, 2026, in Idaho Falls.

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