NRC Office of Public Engagement and Participation Act of 2025

This legislation creates a new Office of Public Engagement and Participation at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to help people take part in NRC cases and decisions. It aims to make it easier for the public to understand the process, speak up, and get help when they want to comment, request a hearing, or share concerns. The office’s director serves a five-year term (up to two terms) and leads a small staff focused on public support and advocacy within the NRC’s work. The office is kept independent within the NRC, so it can focus on the public’s needs and report each year on what help people asked for and the common hurdles they faced.

The office can guide people with educational, legal, and technical help; coordinate assistance for those taking part in NRC proceedings; and advocate for the public interest inside the agency. In some important cases, the NRC may reimburse reasonable attorney and expert costs if a person’s participation made a real difference and joining the case would otherwise cause a serious financial strain. This bill does not weaken any existing rules for public input at the NRC.

• Who is affected: Members of the public who want to take part in NRC hearings, comments, or other cases.
• What changes: A new office helps people participate, offers guidance, and may reimburse certain costs in significant cases; it also issues yearly reports on public needs and barriers.
• When: The first annual report is due within one year after the bill becomes law, then every year after that.