NRC Introduces Major Overhaul of Mandatory Hearings for Reactor Licensing

The NRC has overhauled its mandatory hearing process for reactor licensing by moving hearings to the beginning of review (approximately 30 days after application acceptance) rather than the end, converting them into public town hall-style meetings instead of formal adjudications. The change aims to expedite licensing timelines while increasing early public participation, with the hearing delegated to NRC staff rather than conducted by the Commission itself.