S.2082 - Nuclear Recycling Efficient Fuels Utilizing Expedited Licensing Act of 2025; Nuclear REFUEL Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2082, the Nuclear REFUEL Act of 2025, aims to amend the Atomic Energy Act of 1954. The amendment modifies the definition of "production facility" to exclude equipment that reprocesses spent nuclear fuel without separating plutonium from other transuranic elements. This bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Husted and Mr. Whitehouse and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would likely encourage the development and use of nuclear fuel reprocessing technologies that do not separate plutonium. This could lead to a more efficient use of nuclear fuel resources and potentially reduce the volume of high-level nuclear waste. It may also impact nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Promotes advanced nuclear fuel recycling technologies.
- Could lead to more efficient use of nuclear fuel resources.
- May reduce the volume of high-level nuclear waste.
- Could enhance energy security by utilizing spent nuclear fuel.
- Streamlines the licensing process for certain nuclear facilities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential proliferation risks if safeguards are not robust.
- Environmental concerns related to the handling and storage of transuranic elements.
- Public perception challenges regarding nuclear waste and safety.
- Economic uncertainties associated with deploying new reprocessing technologies.
- May face opposition from groups concerned about nuclear proliferation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill falls under the purview of Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as it deals with nuclear materials and facilities that operate across state lines (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The regulation of nuclear materials is generally accepted as a legitimate exercise of federal power.
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).