H.R.1636 - Securing our Radioactive Materials Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1636, the "Securing our Radioactive Materials Act," directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to enhance security measures for radioactive materials. This bill is a direct response to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlighting vulnerabilities in the NRC's oversight. The Act mandates specific actions, including incorporating socioeconomic consequences into security decisions and improving tracking of category 3 licenses and sources.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to stricter regulations and oversight of radioactive materials, particularly category 3 sources. This includes improved tracking and verification processes. The NRC will be required to revise its guidelines and policies within one year to implement these changes.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Public Safety: Stricter security measures reduce the risk of radioactive materials being used for malicious purposes.
- Improved Tracking: Better tracking systems will help prevent loss or theft of radioactive sources.
- Vendor Verification: Requiring vendors to verify licenses adds an additional layer of security.
- Socioeconomic Considerations: Incorporating socioeconomic factors into decision-making could lead to more equitable and effective security measures.
- Regulatory Updates: Revision of regulations ensures that security measures are up-to-date and effective.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs: Implementing new security measures may increase costs for licensees and the NRC.
- Regulatory Burden: Stricter regulations could create additional administrative burdens for businesses and organizations using radioactive materials.
- Potential Delays: The process of revising regulations and implementing new systems could lead to delays in licensing and other NRC processes.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses primarily on category 3 sources, potentially leaving vulnerabilities in other areas unaddressed.
- Unintended Consequences: New regulations could have unintended consequences for research, medicine, and other industries that rely on radioactive materials.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, which could extend to the regulation of radioactive materials that may cross state lines. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).