Nuclear Nod: NRC Approves New ASME Code Cases for Plants

2026-06048 — Risk-Informed, Technology-Inclusive Regulatory Framework for Advanced Reactors

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is updating its rules to make it easier and faster to approve new types of nuclear reactors, not just the old light-water ones. This change helps companies building advanced reactors by using smarter, risk-based rules that fit new technology. The new rules start on April 29, 2026, and could save time and money for the nuclear industry and the public.

2026-04823 — Fee Schedules; Fee Recovery for Fiscal Year 2026

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is updating its fees for licenses, inspections, and special projects for fiscal year 2026. These changes aim to cover nearly all NRC costs and set fixed fee limits to boost efficiency and fairness. If you’re involved with the NRC, get ready for new fees by September 30, 2026, and don’t miss the April 13 deadline to share your thoughts!

2025-14147 — Fee Schedules; Fee Recovery for Fiscal Year 2025

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission fixed a typo in their fee schedule for 2025. This update affects companies and government agencies that pay licensing and inspection fees, making sure the right amounts are charged. The corrected fees kick in soon, so everyone can plan their budgets without surprises!

2025-11544 — Fee Schedules; Fee Recovery for Fiscal Year 2025

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is updating its fees for licenses, inspections, and special projects starting in fiscal year 2025. These changes make sure the NRC recovers nearly all its costs, while giving a break with lower hourly rates for advanced nuclear reactor applicants. If you’re involved with nuclear licensing or inspections, get ready for new fees and some savings on cutting-edge tech!

2025-02779 — Fee Schedules; Fee Recovery for Fiscal Year 2025

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is updating its fees for licenses, inspections, and special projects starting in fiscal year 2025. These changes make sure the NRC covers almost all its costs, while giving a discount to advanced nuclear reactor applicants. If you’re involved with nuclear licensing or inspections, get ready for new fees and some savings on cutting-edge tech!

2026-06498 — In the Matter of NextEra Energy Duane Arnold, LLC; Central Iowa Power Cooperative; Corn Belt Power Cooperative; Duane Arnold Energy Center; Direct Transfer of Licenses

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved NextEra Energy Duane Arnold, LLC to take full ownership of the Duane Arnold Energy Center’s license by buying out the other two owners. This change means NextEra will now be 100% responsible for the plant and its spent fuel storage. The order took effect on March 30, 2026, and lasts for one year, with no immediate cost changes announced.

Previous: 2026-01450 — Roth In-Plan Conversion; Correction

If you’re in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a tiny fix was made to the new rule letting you switch traditional TSP money to Roth TSP. The correction clears up a wording mix-up about the start date for Roth conversions but doesn’t change how the rule works or affect your money. This update kicks in on January 28, 2026, so get ready to make those Roth moves with confidence!

Next: 2026-01516 — Combating Gender Ideology in Foreign Assistance

Starting February 26, 2026, the U.S. will require all foreign aid recipients—like NGOs and governments—to follow new rules that stop the promotion of gender ideology overseas. This means grants and agreements will include terms to make sure aid supports U.S. policies against gender ideology, certain equity programs, and abortion as family planning. These changes affect how billions in foreign assistance are given and ensure aid aligns with the current administration’s values.