Take Action keep safeguards on new nuclear

Please read below to learn more and reach out to your state senators to oppose any language that repeals Chapter 503.

On February 26, 2026, MA House representatives voted for and passed a bill that would repeal a 1982 citizen-initiated ballot measure known as Chapter 503 of the Acts of 1982 (the “Nuclear Power and Waste Disposal Approval and Legislative Certification Act”).  For 44 years, Chapter 503 has given Bay Staters the right to vote directly on new nuclear power plant construction, and it has required the legislature to certify by resolution that health, safety, disposal, and energy optimization requirements have been met before any new nuclear power plant can be constructed.   This would set the stage for building new nuclear power facilities—big or small. We should not be promoting dirty and dangerous energy sources when we are flush with energy options that are better for people and the planet. Nuclear is, at best, a waste of resources. At worst, it’s a meltdown risk. So now, it’s the Senate’s turn. State Senator Michael Barrett is Chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy in the Massachusetts Senate, and is a leading advocate in the Senate in the fight against climate change. Senator Barrett is heavily involved with writing the Senate version of the energy bill, and he will be on the conference committee to reconcile the House and Senate versions. The Senate bill is expected to be completed very soon. Contact your state senator and Senator Barrett to leave the 1982 citizen initiative in place,  and not repeal Chapter 503, to preserve the voice and environment of Bay Staters. Find your state senator here. Contact Senator Mike Barrett: Email: Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov Phone: (617) 722-1572

Sample Email:

Dear Senator [insert last name],

I urge you to to exclude any language repealing Chapter 503 of the Acts of 1982 from pending energy legislation and preserve the public’s right to vote on new nuclear power plant construction in Massachusetts.

On February 26, 2026, MA House representatives voted for and passed a bill that would repeal a 1982 citizen-initiated ballot measure known as Chapter 503 of the Acts of 1982 (the “Nuclear Power and Waste Disposal Approval and Legislative Certification Act”).  For 44 years, Chapter 503 has given Bay Staters the right to vote directly on new nuclear power plant construction, and it has required the legislature to certify by resolution that health, safety, disposal, and energy optimization requirements have been met before any new nuclear power plant can be constructed.  

I’m particularly concerned about this issue because [Insert your personal reason why you are concerned here. It can be about transparency, preserving our voice in the decision making process, concerns with safety of construction of nuclear power plant construction and safeguards regarding disposal of nuclear waste and more. ]

Thank you,

[Your Name]

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