NRC proposes changes to its rules on nuclear materials

[Marlin]

https://www.ans.org/news/2026-05-19/article-8055/nrc-proposes-changes-to-its-rules-on-nuclear-materials/

[News Wire]

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is proposing amendments to licensing regulations for byproduct and source materials used in medical, industrial, and research applications. These updates aim to streamline administrative processes and modernize requirements for low-risk activities. Interested parties may submit public comments on the proposed rule and draft guidance through the federal rulemaking portal until July 2.

In response to Executive Order 14300, "Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission," the NRC is proposing sweeping changes to its rules governing the use of nuclear materials that are widely used in industry, medicine, and research. The changes would amend NRC regulations for the licensing of nuclear byproduct material, some source...

As published in the May 18 Federal Register, the NRC is seeking public comment on this proposed rule and draft interim guidance until July 2.

Comments on the proposed changes can be submitted through the federal rulemaking website using Docket ID NRC-2025-1205.

The benefits: According to the NRC, the proposed rule would streamline licensing for widely used activities such as medical imaging, cancer diagnostics, industrial radiography, and well logging, making it faster and more predictable for professionals to operate without compromising safety. The updates are also intended to reduce paperwork for low-risk products and modernize requirements to better reflect current technologies and risk levels.

Read the full article at ans.org:
https://www.ans.org/news/2026-05-19/article-8055/nrc-proposes-changes-to-its-rules-on-nuclear-materials/