FORGE Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Baird, James R. [R-IN-4]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 4, 2026
Bottom line
The FORGE Act creates a State Department program to promote U.S. civil nuclear technology and nonproliferation standards globally, specifically for small modular reactors, with a defined sunset date.
What it actually does
This bill establishes the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) program within the Department of State. The program aims to promote the responsible international deployment of civil nuclear energy, advocate for U.S. nuclear technology exports, ensure high safety and nonproliferation standards, provide consultation on regulatory frameworks, offer early-stage project development support, and foster cooperation in training and technical resource sharing for small modular reactor (SMR) deployment. The program is set to terminate on June 8, 2034.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that establishing the FIRST program is crucial for advancing U.S. economic and national security interests by promoting American-sourced civil nuclear technology abroad. They contend that this initiative will ensure the responsible deployment of SMRs with the highest safety, security, and nonproliferation standards, thereby preventing rival nations from dominating this critical energy sector and enhancing global energy security while mitigating proliferation risks.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the goals are laudable, establishing a new program within the State Department may lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies or overlap with existing efforts by other agencies. Concerns could also be raised about the potential costs associated with providing 'early-stage commercial project development support' and whether such support effectively competes with state-backed entities without clear, measurable returns or sufficient oversight. Some may also question the effectiveness of a program with a sunset clause in fostering long-term international partnerships for complex nuclear infrastructure.
The bill is short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and comprehensive understanding of its provisions within the time typically allotted for legislative review.
Section 2(a)
Establishment of the FIRST Program
This section formally creates the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) program within the Department of State. This program is intended to be the primary vehicle for the U.S. government's efforts to promote and regulate the international deployment of small modular reactor technology.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that a dedicated program is essential to provide a clear mandate and centralized effort for the U.S. to lead in the global SMR market, ensuring that U.S. values of safety and nonproliferation are embedded in international deployments.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the establishment of a program with a clear mandate, though concerns about its implementation and effectiveness might arise.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies in balancing the creation of new bureaucratic structures with the agility needed to respond to rapidly evolving international energy markets and geopolitical dynamics.
Section 2(b)
Program Functions and Objectives
This section outlines the core responsibilities of the FIRST program, including promoting responsible civil nuclear energy deployment, advocating for U.S. nuclear exports, ensuring high safety and nonproliferation standards, consulting on regulatory frameworks, providing early-stage project development support, and fostering international cooperation on SMR training and standards. These functions aim to position the U.S. as a leader in global SMR development.
Section 2(c) and 2(d)
Reporting and Briefing Requirements
These sections mandate that the Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security provide a detailed report to appropriate congressional committees within 120 days of the Act's enactment, and then provide triannual briefings thereafter. The report and briefings must cover program implementation, diplomatic outreach, contributing partners, cooperation activities, engagements with U.S. businesses, and funds expended, including those from Nonproliferation, Anti-Terrorism, Demining, and Related Programs.
Section 2(f)
Program Sunset Clause
This provision stipulates that Section 2, which establishes and defines the FIRST program, shall terminate on June 8, 2034. This means the program has a finite lifespan and will cease to exist unless Congress takes further action to extend or reauthorize it before that date.
The entire section establishing the FIRST program, including its functions, reporting requirements, and definitions, is set to terminate on June 8, 2034.
Section 2(f)
Why it matters:While standard legislative practice to include sunset clauses at the end of a section, its placement here could lead a reader to initially believe the program is permanent, only to discover its finite nature later. It could be seen as a mechanism to ensure future congressional review or as a way to limit long-term commitments.
Case for: Supporters of sunset clauses argue they promote accountability and ensure that programs are periodically reviewed for effectiveness and relevance, preventing indefinite continuation of potentially outdated or inefficient initiatives.
Case against: Critics argue that for programs involving long-term international partnerships and infrastructure development, like nuclear energy, a sunset clause can create uncertainty, deterring significant investment and commitment from both U.S. businesses and foreign partners who require long-term stability.
Estimated impact: Limits the program's operational lifespan to approximately 8 years from the bill's introduction date, requiring reauthorization for continuation.