The Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued a proposed rule for comment, which would
streamline Atomic Safety and Licensing Board adjudicatory hearings on most license applications,
including new reactors and reactor license renewals.
This rule is part of broader reforms from Executive Order 14300 aimed at increasing
U.S. nuclear capacity and to reestablish the United States as the global leader in nuclear energy.
EO 14300 directs the NRC to complete licensing actions within 12 to 18 months, or faster.
Historically, NRC adjudications have extended well past these timeframes. This rulemaking would
enable the NRC to meet these deadlines for applications even when they are the subject of hearing
requests by reforming its contested hearing process to accelerate timelines, simplify procedures,
reduce burdens, while preserving due process. Specifically, the amendment would:
• Resolve evidentiary hearings in a few months.
• Start hearings as early as possible after a challenge is admitted for hearing; ensure that
later-filed challenges do not unnecessarily delay NRC licensing decisions.
• Reduce discovery burdens for all parties and accelerate appeals.
• Ensure independent legal and technical judges would still preside over contested hearings,
maintaining fairness for all parties and accurate decisions that protect public safety and
security.
Comments on the proposed rule will be accepted until April 2, following publication in the
Federal Register. Comments can be submitted, referencing Docket ID NRC-2025-1501, at
regulations.gov; the Register notice will include additional instructions.
Source: NRC