Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito commended the NRC Commissioners for their efforts to enhance the advanced nuclear reactor licensing rulemaking. In a statement, Senator Capito expressed her appreciation, stating, "I applaud the NRC Commissioners for addressing major shortcomings in the draft proposed rule." She emphasized the importance of establishing a regulatory framework to facilitate the licensing and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors.

The NRC's directive to publish the proposed rule and draft guidance for the Part 53 rulemaking signifies a significant step towards finalizing the rules aimed at advancing clean and reliable nuclear energy. Senator Capito affirmed her commitment to promoting policies that support the expansion of advanced nuclear technologies, including advocating for the passage of the ADVANCE Act.

The background of the initiative traces back to the passage of the Nuclear Energy Innovation and Modernization Act in 2018, which mandated the NRC to develop a regulatory framework for advanced nuclear reactor applicants. Subsequently, in March 2023, the NRC staff submitted the draft proposed rule for the Part 53 Rulemaking, titled "Risk-Informed, Technology-Inclusive Regulatory Framework for Advanced Reactors."

Senator Capito's advocacy for an effective Part 53 framework was demonstrated in July 2023 when she led a bipartisan effort, along with several other legislators, urging the NRC to establish a practical and efficient regulatory framework for advanced nuclear reactor technologies.

The ongoing collaboration between policymakers and regulatory bodies underscores a shared commitment to enhancing the regulatory environment for advanced nuclear technologies, paving the way for the expansion of clean and reliable energy sources.