ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

57th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session

Majority Research Staff

HB 2798: appropriation; Arizona geological survey; study

Sponsor: Representative Carbone, LD 25

Committee on Appropriations

Overview

Appropriates an unspecified amount from the state General Fund (GF) in FY 2027 to the University of Arizona for distribution to the Arizona Geological Survey to conduct a mineral and metal study relating to materials for nuclear energy.

History

The objectives of the Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS) are among the following:

1) serve as a primary source of geological information to enhance public understanding of Arizona's geologic character, hazards and limitations and mining and mineral resources;

2) inform, advise and assist the public in matters concerning the geological processes, materials and landscapes and the development and use of the mineral resources of Arizona;

3) encourage the wide use of the lands and mineral resources of Arizona toward its development; and

4) provide technical advice and assistance in geology to other state and local governmental agencies engaged in geological projects (A.R.S. § 27-103).

AZGS was established under the University of Arizona (UA) and is administered by the State Geologist who serves at the pleasure of the Arizona Board of Regents (A.R.S. § 27-102).

Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) are nuclear fission reactors that produce electrical energy output and are smaller in both size and output from more traditional, larger nuclear reactors. SMRs vary in size, technology options, capabilities, deployment scenarios and output. These reactors vary in size from tens of megawatts up to hundreds of megawatts, can be used for power generation, process heat, desalination, or other industrial uses. SMR designs may employ light water as a coolant or other non-light water coolants such as a gas, liquid metal, or molten salt (DOE).

Provisions

1. Appropriates an unspecified amount from the state GF in FY 2027 to UA for distribution to AZGS. (Sec. 1)

2. Specifies the appropriated monies are to be used to:

a. conduct a study of all minerals and metals, including thorium, that are needed for generation III+ and generation IV SMRs and advanced nuclear reactors; and

b. create a statewide map of all proven and probable reserves of the applicable minerals and metals, including the quantities and grades for each identified proved and probable reserve. (Sec. 1)

3. Requires AZGS, by an unspecified date, to submit a report of the findings of the study to outlined officials and make available a copy of the report on the AZGS website. (Sec. 1)

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7. Initials CW/HC HB 2798

8. 1/26/2026 Page 0 Appropriations

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