S. 2161: NRC Office of Public Engagement and Participation Act of 2025

This bill aims to establish a new office within the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) called the Office of Public Engagement and Participation. The purpose of this office is to enhance public involvement in the NRC's proceedings and ensure that the public has better access to information and resources related to environmental and safety issues associated with nuclear activities. The key components of the bill include:

Establishment of the Office

The NRC is required to create the Office of Public Engagement and Participation within 180 days of the bill's enactment. This office will be responsible for promoting and facilitating public engagement in NRC processes.

Director of the Office

The office will be led by a Director appointed by the NRC Chair, with a term of five years that can be renewed for one additional term. The Director will have the authority to oversee the functions of the Office and appoint staff as necessary for its operations.

Functions of the Office

The office will carry out various functions, including:

• Supporting public participation in NRC proceedings.
• Serving as a liaison between the NRC and public interest advocates.
• Providing guidance and assistance to the public on how to participate in NRC proceedings.
• Coordinating financial assistance for participants who face significant financial hardship.
• Increasing opportunities for virtual attendance at NRC meetings.
• Implementing recommendations related to environmental justice arising from previous NRC reviews.
• Conducting activities to promote transparency and public engagement.

Compensation for Participants

The Office will coordinate a compensation framework for participants involved in NRC proceedings who face financial hardships. Under this framework:

• Compensation will cover reasonable attorney’s fees, expert witness fees, and other costs related to participation.
• Participants can request compensation prior to the conclusion of a proceeding.
• Eligibility for compensation will depend on the participant's substantial contribution to the proceedings and their financial need.
• The Commission will create guidelines for how compensation requests can be made and evaluated.

Annual Reporting

The Director will submit an annual report to Congress detailing the office's activities, including the number of assistance requests received, challenges faced by the public in participation, and details on compensation requests and payments.

Independence and Oversight

The office will operate independently within the NRC, meaning it will not be subject to control by other NRC members or staff in its activities to promote public engagement.

Intervenor Trust Fund

The bill establishes an Intervenor Trust Fund that will be used to administer the financial assistance programs mentioned above. The Fund's resources will be designated for compensating qualifying participants for their involvement in NRC proceedings.

Existing Public Engagement Standards

The bill stipulates that it will not reduce the existing standards for public engagement required from the NRC. The intention is to enhance, rather than diminish, opportunities for public input and involvement.

Relevant Companies

None found