Regulatory Framework for Fusion Machines

Document 2026-03865 is a Proposed Rule published by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the Federal Register on February 26, 2026. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is proposing to amend its regulations to augment the existing byproduct material framework to be inclusive of fusion machines. The NRC is proposing requirements that are technology-inclusive to accommodate the wide variety of anticipated fusion machine designs across the National Materials Program. The NRC is also issuing for comment draft guidance for the implementation of this proposed rule, entitled NUREG-1556, Volume 22, "Consolidated Guidance About Materials Licenses: Program- Specific Guidance About Fusion Machine Licenses." The NRC will conduct at least one public meeting to promote full understanding of the proposed rule and to facilitate public comments. We seek comment on all aspects of this proposed rule. View the original at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/26/2026-03865/regulatory-framework-for-fusion-machines.

No. Document 2026-03865 is not classified as economically significant under Executive Order 12866. Economically significant rules require OIRA review and are estimated to have impacts of $100 million or more per year.