MORE American Fuel Act of 2026

This bill changes how uranium enrichment facilities are licensed under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, making their licensing process more similar to other nuclear fuel cycle facilities. It allows construction of such facilities to begin before an operating license is granted, under certain conditions, and requires the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to update its regulations within 180 days.

Sec. 2, Licensing of uranium enrichment facilities: The bill removes requirements for a single adjudicatory hearing on the record for construction and operation of uranium enrichment facilities. Instead, the Commission must grant a hearing upon request by any person whose interest may be affected by the facility's operation and admit that person as a party. It also allows construction of a uranium enrichment facility before an operating license is issued, provided construction starts after the application is docketed, complies with all applicable federal laws and regulations, and is entirely at the applicant's own risk.

Notification of enrichment construction: Applicants for an operating license must certify that, at least 15 days before starting construction under the new pre-license construction provision, they will notify the state governor, local government chief executive and governing body, and any affected Indian Tribe's governing body with an emergency response organization.

Regulations required: The Commission must issue updated regulations within 180 days to reflect these changes. For applications submitted before the new regulations take effect, the Commission may grant an exemption from the old regulations.

Savings clause: This bill does not limit the Commission's authority to regulate construction as needed for licensing and oversight, to deny an operating license application, or to affect existing judicial review of Commission actions.