Role of the NRC in export licensing
The current role of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in the export licensing of nuclear materials is seen as being very uncertain. The primary purpose of nuclear licensing is seen as threefold: (1) to determine if the proposed export falls within the scope of the agreement for cooperation, (2) to review any changed circumstances since the negotiation of the agreement for cooperation, and (3) to serve as leverage for national proliferation objectives. The placing of this licensing authority in the NRC by Congress is seen as being in contradiction to the generally accepted idea that a constructive foreign policy is necesssary if the U.S. nonproliferation efforts are to succeed. The author's opinion of the proper role of the NRC as one of consultation rather than one of veto on international issues is expounded. The idea that the time now spent by the NRC on export licensing activities should be spent on domestic activities having international implications within its expertise - i.e. reprocessing and waste management - is set forth.
- OSTI ID:
- 6604408
- Journal Information:
- At. Energy Law J.; (United States), Journal Name: At. Energy Law J.; (United States) Vol. 18:2; ISSN AELJA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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