NRC Office of Public Engagement and Participation Act of 2025

The NRC Office of Public Engagement and Participation Act of 2025 would create a new Office of Public Engagement and Participation within the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This Office is tasked with promoting public participation in NRC proceedings, aiding the public with educational and technical guidance on how to engage, and coordinating assistance for participants. The bill also allows for limited compensation of certain participation costs (like attorney and expert fees) for individuals whose involvement substantially contributes to a favorable position in a significant NRC proceeding and who would face financial hardship without such compensation. The Director of the Office would be appointed by the NRC Chairman, serve up to two five-year terms, and the Office would operate with a degree of independence within the Commission. The bill requires annual reporting to Congress on the Office’s activities and maintains existing public engagement standards without diminishing them. Overall, the bill aims to broaden public access to NRC processes, improve guidance and support for participants, and potentially provide financial assistance to those contributing meaningfully to NRC decisions, while preserving the NRC’s current public-engagement framework.