Efficient Nuclear Licensing Hearings Act (H.R. 5549)

Efficient Nuclear Licensing Hearings Act

This bill expedites the process of reviewing certain uncontested permits and licenses for nuclear power plants (e.g., construction permits and operating licenses) by removing a requirement for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to hold a public hearing at the end of the process. The bill applies to the licenses and permits if a hearing has not been requested by a person whose interest may be affected. The bill also directs the NRC to use informal adjudicatory procedures if such a hearing is held.

Additionally, the bill directs the NRC to hold an adjudicatory hearing regarding the licensing of the construction and operation of a uranium enrichment facility only if the person whose interest may be affected by such construction and operation has requested the hearing.