The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has proposed a new rule to establish clearer groundwater protection standards for communities near uranium in-situ recovery (ISR) sites, while also streamlining administrative processes for decommissioning nuclear facilities.
The proposed rule addresses two distinct areas: setting risk-informed criteria to protect drinking water from radiological and non-radiological contamination near ISR facilities, where uranium is extracted using injected fluids, and simplifying the extension of decommissioning timelines for radioactive materials facilities and nuclear reactors. These changes aim to reduce costs for applicants and prevent premature license terminations.
NRC Executive Director for Operations Mike King said, “This proposed rule reflects the NRC’s commitment to protecting public health by putting a framework into place establishing clear, enforceable standards for groundwater safety near uranium recovery sites. At the same time, we are closing the gap in our regulations, improving regulatory efficiency, and providing greater certainty for both communities and facility operators.” ISR is currently utilized at approximately 16 U.S. uranium recovery facilities.
The public has 30 days following the rule’s publication in the Federal Register to submit comments via regulations.gov under Docket ID NRC-2025-1204.