DATE INTRODUCED:

S. 2082 - 6/12/2025
H.R. 3978 - 6/12/2025

WHAT:

Nuclear fuel recycling technology can increase energy security by turning nuclear waste into fuel for advanced reactors and reduce the volume of used nuclear fuel that ultimately requires permanent storage. Right now, the licensing process for these new recycling facilities lags behind recent technology improvements, delaying projects and increasing costs.

The Nuclear REFUEL Act uses a simple, targeted definition change to provide clarity for new recycling facilities on which licensing framework to use. The bill allows recycling facilities that do not separate plutonium from other transuranics to be licensed under 10 CFR Part 70, like other nuclear fuel facilities, instead of 10 CFR Part 50, a longer, multistep licensing process used for nuclear reactors. Part 70 is a more predictable, efficient and technology-appropriate approach to deploying these new fuel recycling facilities.

WHY IT MATTERS:

New advanced reactors can take advantage of recycled fuels, enabling the commercial deployment of new fuel cycle technology. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission should have the clarity and capability to license these facilities under the appropriate framework. Clarifying that nuclear fuel recycling facilities should be licensed under Part 70 instead of Part 50 would accelerate licensing while reducing unnecessary project costs and regulatory uncertainty.

The REFUEL Act increases regulatory certainty and predictability for companies and strengthens investor confidence. This momentum should spur private investment, strengthen advanced reactor fuel capacity and boost American leadership in nuclear innovation.

WHAT'S NEXT:

This bill lays the groundwork for private companies to take action. New used fuel recycling facilities provide energy security by turning waste stored at existing nuclear plants into a new source of energy for advanced reactors, supporting near-term deployment.

ORIGINAL SPONSORS:

S. 2082
Sens. Jon Husted (R-OH) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)

H.R. 3978
Reps. Bob Latta (R-OH) and Scott Peters (D-CA)

SUPPORT:

ClearPath Action, Curio, Nuclear Innovation Alliance, Oklo, United States Nuclear Industry Council

CONGRESS.GOV LINK:

S. 2082

H.R. 3978

PRINTABLE SUMMARY:

Printable summary of S. 2082 & H.R. 3978