The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has directed its staff to publish a proposed rule and draft guidance to create Part 53, a long-awaited licensing framework geared toward advanced technologies, including advanced reactors.

“This is the first regulatory framework developed for advanced technologies and designs that includes non-light-water reactors,” the NRC said.

In a staff requirements memorandum (SRM) made public on 4 March, the commission directed staff to incorporate several changes to a March 2023 draft proposal within six months of the SRM’s issuance. A final version of the proposed rule is expected by September 2024. A final rule should be issued within 12 to 18 months after the proposal’s publication, taking into account a public comment period.