The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is launching a significant reorganization to streamline decision making, consolidate functions, and align with national goals for more efficient licensing and deployment of safe, innovative nuclear technology, it said on Feb. 4.
The agency will reorganize around core business lines of new reactors, operating reactors, and nuclear materials and waste.
Licensing and inspection functions will be integrated within each business line to create a single point of accountability and improve coordination between licensing and inspection teams from the onset of projects.
In addition, functions carried out under the corporate support business line will be consolidated to improve efficiency.
“We are in one of the most consequential periods in the NRC’s history, and this reorganization enables us to meet the moment with more efficient and timely decision making,” said Chairman Ho Nieh. “This reorganization focuses the NRC’s structure around national priorities aimed at accelerating the safe deployment of nuclear technologies. This reorganization is also aimed at achieving greater consistency in the implementation of agency safety programs across the NRC regional offices.”
The changes meet requirements in Executive Order 14300, “Ordering Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission,” and EO 14210, “Implementing the Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimization Initiative,” enhancing the agency’s ability to respond effectively to current and future demands, the NRC said.
“Moving carefully but expeditiously to carry out this reorganization is imperative to provide much-needed stability and certainty for our staff,” said Executive Director for Operations Mike King. “We will maintain a continued focus on the safety and security of operating facilities while creating a structure and regulatory culture that ensures accountability and service for Americans.”
Among the agency’s near-term priorities will be the Commission’s appointment of key leaders for the reactor safety program, and the staff’s development of a new organizational chart and change management plan within the next 60 days.
The agency will strive to implement the reorganization plan by the end of September.
