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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any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

Home Nuclear Reactors Operating Reactors Operating Reactor Licensing Reactor License Renewal Introduction

Reactor License Renewal Hearing

The NRC has a process for any person who believes they would be adversely affected by a reactor license renewal to request a hearing.

On this page:

NRC Procedures for Adjudications New Revisions to 10 CFR Part 2

  • New rule became effective on February 13, 2004
    • Final rule applies to all proceedings noticed on or after February 13, 2004
    • Proceedings noticed before February 13, 2004 will continue to be governed by old Part 2

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Major Provisions of New Part 2 Rule

  • Individual hearing tracks: Subparts G, J, K, L, M, N, and O
  • Common procedures/requirements in new Subpart C
  • Contentions and bases (supporting information) must be submitted with the request for a hearing
  • Ordinarily, contentions and bases must be submitted 60 days after notice
    • NRC will provide notices of major licensing and regulatory actions on the NRC Web site
  • Most hearings to be conducted under Subpart L
    • Construction permits, operating licenses, combined licenses, renewed licenses, license amendments, and license terminations for power reactors
      • Exception: resolution of contentions involving occurrence of a past event, where credibility, motive, or intent of eyewitness or party are at issue -- Subpart G (most formal, trial-like procedures)
    • Materials licenses and materials license amendments
  • Subpart L has more informal procedures
    • Mandatory disclosures by all parties instead of traditional discovery
    • Cross-examination only with approval of presiding officer

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Part 2 Resources

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Page Last Reviewed/Updated Thursday, July 1, 2021