Trump signs executive orders to boost nuclear power, speed up approvals
May 23, 2025
President Donald Trump has signed executive orders to speed up the development of nuclear power and grant the energy secretary authority to approve advanced reactor designs and projects. The orders take authority away from the independent safety agency that has regulated the U.S. nuclear industry for decades. Friday’s orders would reorganize the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to ensure quicker reviews of nuclear projects, including an 18-month deadline for the NRC to act on industry applications. The White House says there will be significant staff reductions at the NRC but they don’t intend to fire commissioners who head the agency. Critics say the moves could compromise safety and violate legal frameworks.
