NRC Considers Ending ALARA Standard to Lower Nuclear Energy Costs Under Trump Administration

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is contemplating the elimination of the ALARA principle, which mandates minimizing radiation exposure below established safety limits. This potential shift, aligned with the Trump administration's goal to expand nuclear energy, could ease regulatory burdens for new reactor construction. Current exposure limits are 5 rem per year for workers and 100 millirem for the public. The Department of Energy has already approved ending ALARA for its reactors, which may further influence industry standards.

Published Mar 30, 2026

The NRC is discussing a proposal to end the ALARA principle, which requires minimizing radiation exposure below legal limits, to reduce construction costs for new nuclear reactors. Current exposure limits are 5 rem for workers and 100 millirem for the public.

AI-curated by Theia

The Trump administration aims to expand nuclear energy, with plans for 10 new reactors by 2030. The Department of Energy has also approved ending ALARA for its reactors. Critics warn that removing ALARA could lead to increased radiation exposure for workers, who currently experience levels well below established limits.