ML25268A292
| ML25268A292 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Issue date: | 01/09/2026 |
| From: | Ho Nieh NRC/Chairman |
| To: | Paoletta M US Executive Office of the President, Office of Mgmt & Budget (OMB) |
| Shared Package | |
| ML25127A202 | List: |
| References | |
| CORR-26-0004 | |
| Download: ML25268A292 (0) | |
Text
Enclosure U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Statement of Regulatory Priorities for Fiscal Year 2026 I. Introduction Under the authority of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974, as amended, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC or the agency) regulates commercial nuclear power plants and other uses of nuclear materials (such as in nuclear medicine) through licensing, inspection, and enforcement of its requirements. The NRC regulates commercial reactors for generating electric power and research and test reactors used for research, testing, and training; the uses of nuclear materials in medical, industrial, and academic settings and facilities that produce nuclear fuel; the transportation, storage, and disposal of nuclear materials and waste; and the decommissioning of nuclear facilities from service.
On May 23, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order (E.O.) 14300, Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (90 FR 22587). Section 5, Reforming and Modernizing the NRCs Regulations, requires the NRC to undertake a review and wholesale revision of its regulations and guidance documents as guided by the policies set forth in section 2 of the E.O. The NRC is coordinating new rulemaking efforts in response to E.O. 14300 with actions that were already underway to implement the provisions of the Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy (ADVANCE) Act, which was signed into law on July 9, 2024.
The NRCs regulatory priorities for fiscal year (FY) 2026 reflect its safety and security mission and enable the agency to protect public health and safety and advance the Nations common defense and security by enabling the safe and secure use and deployment of civilian nuclear energy technologies and radioactive materials, and continue to foster efficient and reliable licensing, oversight, and regulation for the benefit of society and the environment. In implementing the review and revisions contemplated by E.O. 14300, the NRCs focus is on activities that add power to the grid.
II. NRC Regulatory Priorities This section contains information on some of the most important and significant regulatory actions that the agency is considering in proposed or final form during FY 2026, including new or expanded rulemaking activities in response to E.O. 14300; additional items may be added in the future. This report does not include the NRCs rulemakings, Incorporation by Reference of Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standard-603-2018 (RIN 3150-AL06; NRC-2024-0045), Integrated Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal (RIN 3150-AI92; NRC-2011-0012), and Organizational Changes and Conforming Amendments (RIN 3150-AL52; NRC-2025-1270). The NRC will also work to finalize the rules described in the Proposed Rules section but not included in the final rule section during Fiscal Year 2027 but within the timelines described in E.O. 14300.
The agencys portion of the Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions contains additional information on the NRCs rulemaking activities and a broader spectrum of its upcoming regulatory actions (https://www.reginfo.gov/public/). The NRC provides additional information on planned rulemakings and petition for rulemaking activities, including priorities and schedules, on its website at https://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/regulatory/rulemaking/rules-petitions.html.
E.O. 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation (90 FR 9065; February 6, 2025) requires agencies to identify in their FY 2026 Regulatory Plans, on an aggregated basis, for regulations that increase incremental cost, the offsetting regulations described in section 3(c) of E.O. 14192, and provide the agencys best approximation of the total costs or savings associated with each new regulation or repealed regulation.
With one exception (RIN 3150-AL12, NRCs rule to implement its annual fee schedule changes), the proposed and final rules listed below are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders; when available, preliminary estimated savings have been identified.
A. Proposed Rules Revision of Fee Schedules: Fee Recovery for Fiscal Year 2026 (RIN 3150-AL12; NRC-2023-0212)
This rulemaking proposes to amend the NRC's regulations for fee schedules. Consistent with the Nuclear Energy Innovation and Modernization Act (NEIMA), the NRC conducts this rulemaking annually to recover, to the maximum extent practicable, approximately 100 percent of the NRCs total budget authority, less the budget authority for excluded activities, by September 30 of the fiscal year. This rulemaking would affect the fee schedules for licensing, inspections, and annual fees charged to the NRCs applicants and licensees. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in February 2026.
This rulemaking would also amend NRCs fee regulations in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Part 170, Fees for Facilities, Materials, Import and Export Licenses, and Other Regulatory Services Under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as Amended, to establish fixed caps on service fees in response to Section 5(a) of E.O. 14300.
Consistent with OMB Circular A-4, the fees charged by the NRC are considered transfer payments and therefore not part of the costs of this rulemaking.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity meets the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: William Blaney, Office of the Chief Financial Officer, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555; phone: (301) 415-5092, email: william.blaney@nrc.gov.
Reforming and Modernizing the NRCs Radiation Protection Framework (RIN 3150-AL47; NRC-2025-1140)
This rulemaking would amend the NRCs regulations to revise the NRCs radiation protection regulatory framework to support the national policy statements of E.O.14300 as well as the direction in Section 5(b) of the E.O. that the NRC reconsider reliance on the linear no-threshold (LNT) model for radiation exposure and the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) standard. The NRC proposes to reconsider reliance on LNT model for radiation exposure and the ALARA standard. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Caylee Kenny, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-7150, email: caylee.kenny@nrc.gov.
National Environmental Policy Act Requirements (RIN 3150-AL38; NRC-2025-0478)
This rulemaking proposes revision to the NRCs regulations to (1) streamline implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act, (2) alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens, and (3) expand flexibilities for applicants and licensees while complying with environmental requirements. The revisions are necessitated by and consistent with E.O. 14300 and E.O.
14154, Unleashing American Energy. The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Andrew Carrera, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1078; email:
andrew.carrera@nrc.gov.
Streamlined Reviews of Proven Reactor Designs (3150-AL60; NRC-2025-1503)
This rulemaking proposes to establish a pathway for streamlined reviews of proven reactor designs, consistent with Section 5(d) of E.O. 14300. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency
Contact:
Dan Doyle, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3748; email:
dan.doyle@nrc.gov.
Licensing Requirements for Microreactors and Other Low Consequence Reactors (RIN 3150-AL36; NRC-2025-0379)
This rulemaking proposes amendments to the NRCs regulations to establish a licensing pathway for factory-fabricated microreactors and other low-consequence reactors, consistent with Section 5(e) of E.O. 14300. This framework aims to facilitate the licensing and deployment of these nuclear technologies, which offer a high level of safety and security, by accommodating the diverse manufacturing, construction, and operational models that differ from traditional large light water reactors. The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in February 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency Contacts: George M. Tartal, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-0016, email:
george.tartal@nrc.gov and Aaron Kwok, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, phone: (301) 415-1371, email: aaron.kwok@nrc.gov.
Modernizing Reactor Licensing, Safety Oversight, and Siting Practices (RIN 3150-AL44; NRC-2025-0975)
This rulemaking proposes revisions to NRCs requirements to modernize reactor licensing, safety oversight, and siting practices, consistent with Sections 5(f), 5(h), and 5(i) of E.O.
14300. This rulemaking will also incorporate the proposed rulemaking, Increased Enrichment of Conventional and Accident Tolerant Fuel Designs for Light-Water Reactors (RIN 3150-AK79; NRC-2025-0975). This rulemaking would affect nuclear reactor licensees seeking to implement fuel designs that make use of enrichments greater than the current limit (such as accident tolerant fuel). The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Philip Benavides, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3246; email: philip.benavides@nrc.gov.
Modernizing Security Requirements (RIN 3150-AL53; NRC-2025-1303)
This rulemaking proposes to modernize security requirements, including the drug and alcohol testing requirements for fitness-for-duty programs, consistent with Section 5(g) of E.O. 14300.
This rulemaking will incorporate the proposed rulemaking, Drug and Alcohol Testing:
Technical Issues and Editorial Changes (3150-AJ15; NRC-2012-0079). The rulemaking addresses three petitions for rulemaking (PRM-26-4, PRM-26-7, PRM-26-8). The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Dan Doyle, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3748; email:
dan.doyle@nrc.gov.
Streamlining Contested Adjudications in Licensing Proceedings (RIN 3150-AL58; NRC-2025-1501)
This rulemaking proposed to amend the NRCs regulations to revise the contesting hearing proceedings. The purpose of this rule is to streamline and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of contested adjudications in licensing proceedings in response to the ADVANCE Act of 2024 and Section 5(j) of E.O. 14300. The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in March 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity does not meet the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Dennis Andrukat, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3561, email: dennis.andrukat@nrc.gov.
Modernizing Materials Licensing (RIN 3150-AL56; NRC-2025-1370)
This rulemaking proposes to revise the NRCs regulations consistent with the direction in Section 5 of E.O. 14300 that the NRC undertake a review and wholesale revision of its regulations and guidance documents. This rulemaking would affect light water reactor licensees, licensees transporting waste from advanced and micro reactors, and reprocessing facility applicants. The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in March 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Andy Imboden, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 287-9055, email: andy.imboden@nrc.gov.
2023 Edition of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (RIN 3150-AK42; NRC-2020-0029)
This rulemaking would amend the NRC's regulations to authorize the use of recent editions of American Society of Mechanical Engineers codes. This rulemaking would affect applicants in the form of design requirements and nuclear power reactor licenses. The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in February 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity does not meet the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Aaron Kwok, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1371, email:
aaron.kwok@nrc.gov.
Regulatory Enhancements for Reactor Licensing, Decommissioning, and Operational Oversight (RIN 3150-AL45; NRC-2025-1138)
This rulemaking proposes to amend the NRCs regulations to revise nonemergency event reporting requirements for power reactors, update definitions and reporting obligations across multiple parts, and eliminate outdated or redundant regulatory provisions, consistent with the direction in Section 5 of E.O. 14300. The goal of this rulemaking is to enhance regulatory efficiency by retaining safety-significant requirements, reducing unnecessary administrative burden, and aligning NRC regulations with current practices and Executive Orders. This proposed rule is merged with the rulemaking, Reporting Requirements for Nonemergency Events at Nuclear Power Plants (RIN 3150-AK71; NRC-2020-0036). The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in May 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Tyler Hammock, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1381, email: tyler.hammock@nrc.gov.
Modernizing NRC Regulations for Byproduct Material Use (RIN 3150-AL49; NRC-2025-1205)
The NRC is proposing to amend its regulations for decommissioning financial assurance for sealed and unsealed radioactive materials and modernizing NRC regulations for byproduct material use, consistent with the direction in Section 5 of E.O. 14300. This proposed rule will incorporate the rulemaking, Decommissioning Financial Assurance for Sealed and Unsealed Radioactive Materials (RIN 3150-AK52; NRC-2017-0031). The rulemaking will apply to all entities, including those in Agreement States, licensed to possess sealed or unsealed byproduct or special nuclear material with a half-life greater than 120 days. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Amy McKenna, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1230, email:
amy.mckenna@nrc.gov.
Reducing Barriers to Medical Use Licensing (RIN 3150-AL50; NRC-2025-1237)
This rulemaking proposes amendments to NRCs regulations to reduce barriers to medical use licensing, consistent with the direction in Section 5 of E.O. 14300. This proposed rule will incorporate the rulemaking, Rubidium-82 Generators, Emerging Medical Technologies, and Other Uses of Byproduct Material (RIN 3150-AK80; NRC-2018-0297) that would revise the NRC's regulations to allow for the inclusion of emerging medical technologies. The regulated entities affected would include all NRC, Agreement State, and Master Materials License medical licensees and permittees using microspheres and gamma stereotactic radiosurgery.
The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in April 2026.
This proposed rule is considered a deregulatory action and is expected to reduce barriers to medical use licensing by enabling more efficient and predictable licensing, increasing flexibility, and easing administrative burden for the NRC, Agreement States, licensees and individuals or entities that seek medical use licenses. To make emerging medical licensing efficient and predictable, some new provisions will be introduced that were previously used to license these technologies. The overall impact is expected to result in net savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Irene Wu, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1951, email:
irene.wu@nrc.gov.
In-situ Recovery Monitoring and Decommissioning Timeliness (RIN 3150-AL48; NRC-2025-1204)
This rulemaking proposes to amend the NRCs regulations to codify risk-informed groundwater protection standards for in-situ recovery (ISR) facilities, risk-inform decommissioning timeliness regulations, consistent with the direction in Section 5 of E.O.
14300. This rule will incorporate rulemaking, Groundwater Protection at Uranium in Situ Recovery Facilities (RIN 3150-AI40; NRC-2008-0421). The rule would affect in situ leach uranium recovery facility licensees and applicants. The NRC anticipates this proposed rule to be published in May 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Caylee Kenny, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-7150, email: caylee.kenny@nrc.gov.
Modernizing Requirements Relating to the Physical Protection of Category 1 and Category 2 Quantities of Radioactive Material (RIN 3150-AL51; NRC-2025-1238)
This initiative aims to modernize the NRC's regulations by removing unnecessary requirements relating to physical protection and security of category 1 and category 2 quantities of radioactive material, while maintaining safety and security. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in March 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to NRC, Agreement States, and Industry stakeholders.
Agency
Contact:
Andrew Carrera, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1078, email:
andrew.carrera@nrc.gov.
Modernizing Package Certification Requirements (RIN 3150-AL62; NRC-2025-1667)
This rulemaking proposes to amend its regulations for radioactive materials transportation packages to modernize package certification requirements for large Type B Fissile packages to accommodate anticipated transport of irradiated transportable microreactors and similar packages. This proposed action is responsive to several executive orders and the NRCs mission to enable efficient and reliable licensing. Specifically, the proposed rule will (1) make several minor changes to existing 10 CFR Part 71, Packaging and Transportation of Radioactive Material, regulatory text to facilitate consideration of irradiated transportable microreactor package designs, (2) add an option to evaluate irradiated microreactor packages for transport using a pre-approved risk framework for packages that cannot meet the explicit radiation dose rate limits in 10 CFR 71.47, External radiation standards for all packages, and (3) seek stakeholder feedback on the potential for explicit higher allowable radiation dose rates associated with such packages in transport. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in May 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency
Contact:
Soly Soto Lugo, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-7528, email:
soly.sotolugo@nrc.gov.
Regulatory Framework for Fusion Systems (RIN 3150-AL00; NRC-2023-0071)
This rulemaking proposes to amend the NRCs byproduct material regulations to establish regulatory framework requirements for fusion systems that are technology inclusive and supportive of a performance-based approach to regulation. The purpose of this proposed rulemaking is to respond to NEIMA direction to establish a regulatory framework for fusion systems by 2027. The NRC anticipates the proposed rule to be published in February 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to NRC, Agreement States, and Industry stakeholders.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity meets the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency Contacts: Dennis Andrukat, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3561, email:
dennis.andrukat@nrc.gov, B. Final Rules Revision of Fee Schedules: Fee Recovery for Fiscal Year 2026 (RIN 3150-AL12; NRC-2023-0212)
This rulemaking amends the NRC's regulations for fee schedules. Consistent with NEIMA, the NRC conducts this rulemaking annually to recover, to the maximum extent practicable, approximately 100 percent of the NRCs total budget authority, less the budget authority for excluded activities, by September 30 of the FY. This rulemaking would affect the fee schedules for licensing, inspections, and annual fees charged to the NRCs applicants and licensees. The NRC anticipates the final rule to be published in June 2026.
This rulemaking would also amend NRCs fee regulations in 10 CFR Part 170 to establish fixed caps on service fees in response to Section 5(a) of E.O. 14300.
The NRC anticipates that this rulemaking activity will meet the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: William Blaney, Office of the Chief Financial Officer, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555; phone: (301) 415-5092, email: william.blaney@nrc.gov.
Generic Environmental Impact Statement for Licensing of New Nuclear Reactors (RIN 3150-AK55; NRC-2020-0101)
This rulemaking amends the NRCs regulations that govern the agencys National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 reviews. The rulemaking would codify the findings of NUREG-2249, Generic Environmental Impact Statement for Licensing of New Nuclear Reactors, issued as a draft report for comment in September 2024 (NR GEIS, formerly Advanced Nuclear Reactor Generic Environmental Impact Statement or ANR GEIS). The NR GEIS would use a technology-neutral regulatory framework and performance-based assumptions to determine generic environmental impacts for new nuclear reactors. The NRC anticipates the final rule to be published in June 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity meets the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Soly Soto Lugo, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-7528; email:
soly.sotolugo@nrc.gov.
Risk-Informed, Technology-Inclusive Regulatory Framework for Advanced Reactors (RIN 3150-AK31; NRC-2019-0062)
This rulemaking would establish an optional technology-inclusive regulatory framework for use by applicants for new commercial advanced nuclear reactors. The regulatory requirements developed in this rulemaking would use methods of evaluation, including risk-informed and performance-based methods, that are flexible and practicable for application to a variety of advanced reactor technologies. The NRC anticipates the final rule to be published in March 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity meets the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Nicole Fields, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (630) 829-9570; email:
nicole.fields@nrc.gov.
Regulatory Improvements for Production and Utilization Facilities Transitioning to Decommissioning (RIN 3150-AJ59; NRC-2015-0070)
This rulemaking amends the NRC's regulations to provide a streamlined and more effective regulatory framework for nuclear power reactors transitioning to decommissioning. The goals of this rulemaking are to maintain a safe, effective, and efficient decommissioning process; reduce license amendment requests and exemptions; address other relevant decommissioning issues; and support the NRC's Principles of Good Regulation. The NRC anticipates the final rule to be published in August 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
The NRC anticipates that this rulemaking activity will meet the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Daniel Doyle, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3748; email:
daniel.doyle@nrc.gov.
Licensing Requirements for Microreactors and Other Low Consequence Reactors (RIN 3150-AL36; NRC-2025-0379)
This rulemaking amends the NRCs regulations to establish a licensing pathway for factory-fabricated microreactors and other low-consequence reactors, consistent with Section 5(e) of E.O. 14300. This framework aims to facilitate the licensing and deployment of these nuclear technologies, which offer a high level of safety and security, by accommodating the diverse manufacturing, construction, and operational models that differ from traditional large light water reactors. The NRC anticipates the final rule to be published in September 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency Contacts: George M. Tartal, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-0016, email:
george.tartal@nrc.gov and Aaron Kwok, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, phone: (301) 415-1371, email: aaron.kwok@nrc.gov.
Streamlining Contested Adjudications in Licensing Proceedings (RIN 3150-AL58; NRC-2025-1501)
This rulemaking amends the NRCs regulations to revise the contesting hearing proceedings.
The purpose of this rule is to streamline and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of contested adjudications in licensing proceedings in response to the ADVANCE Act of 2024 and Section 5(j) of E.O. 14300. The NRC anticipates this final rule to be published in August 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Dennis Andrukat, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3561, email: dennis.andrukat@nrc.gov.
Rescission of Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards Requirements (RIN 3150-AL43; NRC-2025-0479)
This rulemaking would amend the NRCs regulations in response to Section 4.(b) of E.O.
14300 to reduce the functions of the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards. Specifically, this direct final rule rescinds several NRC regulations to the minimum necessary to fulfill ACRSs minimum statutory obligations. The NRC anticipates this direct final rule to be published in March 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both the NRC and industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Denise Edwards, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (404) 997-4432, email: denise.edwards@nrc.gov.
Exceptions from Foreign Ownership, Control, or Domination (RIN 3150-AL32; NRC-2024-0218)
This rulemaking would amend the NRCs regulations to comply with Section 301 of the Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy Act of 2024, which has designated certain exceptions from the foreign ownership, control, or domination provision set forth in the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended. This rulemaking would affect applicants and licensees of commercial nuclear power reactor or non-power production or utilization facilities that are owned, controlled, or dominated by some foreign entities. The NRC anticipates this direct final rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Irene Wu, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1951, email:
irene.wu@nrc.gov.
Exemptions from Materials Licensing (RIN 3150-AL61; NRC-2025-1568)
Consistent with E.O. 14300, this initiative aims to modernize the NRC's Schedule B exempt quantity licensing thresholds and the Department of Energy (DOE) exemptions for material use. The NRC anticipates this direct final rule to be published in May 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Andy Imboden, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 287-9220, email: andy.imboden@nrc.gov.
NRC Modernization: FACA Alignment, Access, Security, and Equity (RIN 3150-AL46; NRC-2025-1139)
This rulemaking would amend the NRCs regulations to align with Committee Management Secretariat Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) requirements, streamline procedural provisions, address nondiscrimination, advisory committees, access authorization, and national security eligibility criteria. This action is being undertaken in response to E.O. 14300.
The NRC anticipates this direct final rule to be published in May 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Denise Edwards, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (404) 997-4432, email: denise.edwards@nrc.gov.
Regulatory Changes to Nonprocurement and Debarment and Suspension Requirement (RIN 3150-AL41; NRC-2025-0643)
This rulemaking would revise part 2000 of 2 CFR, Nonprocurement Debarment and Suspension, to change references from OMB guidance to OMB regulations. This change is driven by a July 10, 2025 request from the Office of Management and Budget to comply with Executive Orders. The NRC anticipates this final rule to be published in June 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Amy McKenna, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1230, email: amy.mckenna@nrc.gov.
Increased Flexibility in the Mandatory Hearing Process (RIN 3150-AL59; NRC-2025-1502)
This rulemaking would amend the NRCs regulations to remove the requirement to make specific findings under the National Environmental Policy Act in an uncontested proceeding; thereby, providing the Commission more flexibility with the conduct of uncontested hearings.
The NRC anticipates this final rule to be published in April 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity does not meet the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Dennis Andrukat, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3561, email: dennis.andrukat@nrc.gov.
Revisions to Export Requirement (RIN 3150-AL57; NRC-2025-1468)
Consistent with E.O. 14300, this initiative aims to streamline the regulations in 10 CFR Part 110, which govern the export of nuclear reactor equipment and materials. The NRC anticipates this final rule to be published in June 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: David Suchy, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-4130, email:
david.suchy@nrc.gov.
Revisions to Freedom of Information Act Implementing Regulations (RIN 3150-AL14; NRC-2024-0044)
This rulemaking would amend the NRCs Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) implementing regulations, to improve the clarity of the existing requirements by using plain language, promote agency accountability, improve efficiency in responding to FOIA requests, update roles and responsibilities, and align the regulations with current Federal best practices for implementing FOIA. This rulemaking would address the Office of Government Information Services recommendation that the NRC update its FOIA regulations as well as provide the NRC the opportunity to incorporate the Department of Justice's model language for FOIA regulations, where appropriate. The NRC anticipates this final rule to be published in March 2026.
Each of the regulatory changes within this rule are deregulatory and are expected to result in cost savings to both NRC and Industry stakeholders.
Agency contact: Amy McKenna, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-1230, email: amy.mckenna@nrc.gov.
The Sunset Rule: Aircraft Impact Assessment (RIN 3150-AL63; NRC-2026-0166)
The NRC is considering amending its regulations to insert a conditional sunset date to the NRCs requirements for aircraft impact assessments. This action is in response to Executive Order 14270, "Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting to Unleash American Energy." The NRC will consider in this action public input received on a previous rulemaking to sunset NRC regulations (90 FR 55699; December 3, 2025).
The OIRA has determined that this rulemaking activity does not meet the requirements of a significant regulatory action.
Agency contact: Cindy Bladey, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; phone: (301) 415-3280, email: cindy.bladey@nrc.gov.