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ARTICLE · 10 APRIL 2026

Navigating Nuclear: What Part 53 Previews For Future Rulemakings

K&L Gates
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The final rule does not include this requirement and requires the holder of an operating license or combined license to develop, implement, and maintain a program for the control of radioactive effluents and for environmental monitoring. In its response to public comments related to ALARA, the NRC stated that "referring to 10 CFR Part 20 is sufficient to address radiation protection standards.

United StatesEnergy and Natural Resources
Tison Campbell
Tison Campbell
Jasper G. Noble
Jasper G. Noble

On 25 March 2026, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) affirmed its final rule adding 10 C.F.R. part 53, "Risk-Informed, Technology-Inclusive Regulatory Framework for Advanced Reactors," to its regulatory framework.1 Part 53 is a voluntary, risk-informed, performance-based alternative licensing pathway for commercial nuclear reactors.2 This final rule was issued in the midst of the NRC's "wholesale revision" of its regulations, which the NRC was directed to undertake in Executive Order 14300, Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.3 While it is not possible to predict precisely the content of these rules, a few insights gleaned from the final part 53 rule are highlighted below.

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