Licenses, Certifications, and Approvals for Materials Licensees

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC or the Commission) is amending its regulations by revising the provisions applicable to the licensing and approval processes for byproduct, source and special nuclear materials licenses, and irradiators. The changes will clarify the definitions of "construction" and "commencement of construction" with respect to materials licensing actions conducted under the NRC's regulations. The NRC is adopting these changes to further improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the licensing and approval processes for future materials license applications, as well as to eliminate certain inconsistencies that currently exist within the NRC's regulations with respect to the use and definition of the terms "construction" or "commencement of construction" for certain materials licensees for purposes of its environmental reviews.