Supporting Modernization of Radiation Rules to Enable Nuclear Energy Growth

The Trump administration's effort to scrap the old radiation safety standard is a long-overdue correction that will help the United States expand its nuclear power fleet. The current rule, based on the linear no-threshold model, imposes a zero-risk approach that is not supported by today's evidence. Studies show that low doses of radiation may not cause harm and could even have beneficial effects, a concept known as radiation hormesis. By moving to a threshold-based standard, the NRC would set limits only for exposures known to be dangerous, freeing up resources for innovation and new reactor designs. The nuclear industry has struggled under the weight of compliance costs that run into billions of dollars annually, costs that are passed on to ratepayers. Eliminating this outdated practice will make nuclear plants more competitive with natural gas and renewables, supporting President Trump's goal of energy dominance. It will also allow existing plants to operate longer and new advanced reactors to be built faster, both essential for meeting climate targets. The change does not abandon safety; it updates it with the best available science, ensuring protection without unnecessary economic harm.