The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is in the process of rescinding or revising guidance and policies posted on this webpage in accordance with Executive Order 14151 Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, and Executive Order 14168 Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. In the interim, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

Laws and Regulations

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New nuclear reactor licensing is a complex, multi-year process governed by both federal laws passed by the U.S. Congress and regulations developed by the NRC. The Federal laws governing the NRC generally have high-level directives for the civilian use of nuclear materials. The finer details of reactor licensing and other civilian uses are found in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR). The NRC develops and issues these regulations for all areas under its jurisdiction. All U.S. civilian uses of materials must comply with federal laws and the regulations in 10 CFR.

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Monday, February 3, 2025