# Plain Language Summary: Global Nuclear Energy Assessment and Cooperation Act

This bill directs the U.S. Department of Energy to study the worldwide nuclear power industry and figure out how America can better compete in this space. Within a year, the department must examine the current state of nuclear energy globally, look at supply chain issues, and assess how nuclear power affects climate change and pollution. The study will also explore how countries like Russia and China use their nuclear industries as tools in diplomacy and foreign policy, and what that means for American interests. The department then has six months to report its findings to Congress, including recommendations on how the U.S. can develop a national strategy to use nuclear energy more effectively in diplomacy and national security.

Beyond the study, the bill creates a training program where the U.S. will teach foreign nuclear experts about American safety practices and help other countries build stronger nuclear regulatory systems. However, there's a catch: the U.S. won't train experts from countries that steal intellectual property, undermine American industries, or are deemed hostile to U.S. interests. The bill also establishes a new branch within the Nuclear Regulatory Commission specifically focused on helping other countries export and develop nuclear technology, positioning America as a leader in the global nuclear market.

Finally, the bill adds a national security safeguard by prohibiting American companies from using nuclear fuel made by Russia or China unless they get special permission from the government. Before granting that permission, the Secretary of Energy and Secretary of State must agree that it won't threaten American security. This essentially cuts off a potential supply chain vulnerability while giving the government time to evaluate whether any Russian or Chinese nuclear fuel poses a risk to the country.

Global Nuclear Energy Assessment and Cooperation Act

Carter, Earl L. "Buddy"

Global Nuclear Energy Assessment and Cooperation Act This bill establishes requirements concerning international nuclear energy cooperation and safety. Specifically, the Department of Energy (DOE) must develop and carry out a program to train foreign nuclear energy experts and standardize safety practices. DOE must also study the global status of the civilian nuclear energy industry and its supply chain. In addition, the bill prohibits any person from possessing or owning enriched uranium from Russian or China unless specifically authorized by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). NRC may not issue a license to possess or own such fuel if DOE and the Department of State determine that the possession or ownership would pose a threat to national security. NRC must establish an International Nuclear Reactor Export and Innovation Branch within its Office of International Programs to carry out and coordinate certain nuclear reactor export and innovation activities. NRC must also identify in its annual budget justification such activities.