State Rep. Dick Stein announces ANTHEM Act

State Rep. Dick Stein, a Norwalk Republican, announced Feb. 27 the introduction of House Bill 104, legislation to change the landscape of nuclear technology in America, according to a news release. The ANTHEM (Advanced Nuclear Technology Helping Energize Mankind) Act would facilitate a U.S. Department of Energy/Ohio venture to prototype next generation nuclear technology. “I am proud to introduce

the ANTHEM Act,” Stein said. “Over the last three years, I have engaged with hundreds of stakeholders, from local forums to national reactor conferences to inform people of the bill. “I am glad to be working toward a solution with the support of many, and open Ohio to a breakthrough industry.” The ANTHEM Act establishes a regulatory authority and a for-profit research consortium to construct new nuclear reactor technologies for use in Ohio. The scope of nuclear applications

is vast and ANTHEM focuses on concepts that produce medical isotopes and those that burn reprocessed nuclear waste as fuel, Stein said. Ohio has a storied history with nuclear research and development, from early nuclear science to modern deep-space propulsion, the release said. “Ohio is home to an incredibly skilled and technical workforce with a renowned nuclear engineering facility,” Stein said. “Ohio is home to key players in the nuclear medicine

and reactor manufacturing supply chains. “America wants to pursue advanced nuclear technologies and plans to invest $115 million to reopen the Piketon Enrichment Facility. We need to build on that momentum.” The ANTHEM Act awaits referral to a House committee for testimony. Stein, who is serving his second term as a state representative, represents Ohio’s 57th House District, which includes all of Huron County and portions of Lorain County.