NRC Updates Records for Advanced Nuclear Reactor Licenses
Published Date: 5/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is updating its records system to include new rules for licensing advanced nuclear reactor operators. This change affects current and future facility operators and opens a 30-day window for public comments until June 8, 2026. No new costs are mentioned, but the update keeps things clear and fair for everyone involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Records May Be Disclosed Without Consent
The system notice lists routine uses that allow the NRC to disclose operator records without the individual's consent for purposes such as determining license eligibility, providing information to researchers and facility management, referrals to law enforcement or other agencies, hiring or security-clearance checks, congressional inquiries, contract staff access, and breach-response sharing. These routine disclosures are explicit in the notice.
Advanced-reactor Operators Added
The NRC is expanding its Facility Operator Licensees Records (NRC 16) to explicitly include individuals licensed under new 10 CFR part 53 as well as those licensed under 10 CFR part 55. This change applies to current and future facility operator licensees and applicants and clarifies that their license applications, exam results, medical status, and related records are part of the system.
Record Retention and Disposal Timelines
The notice specifies retention rules: operator licensing files are cut off on latest license expiration/revocation/termination or application denial/withdrawal and are destroyed when 10 years old; examination package records are cut off upon receipt of the next exam and destroyed 4 years after cutoff. These retention timeframes apply to records for 10 CFR part 53 or 55 operator files.
30-Day Public Comment Window
The NRC is soliciting public comments on the proposed revisions to NRC 16; comments must be submitted by June 8, 2026. The 30-day comment period is open for stakeholders to provide feedback before any final changes are made.
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