# What the Global Nuclear Energy Assessment and Cooperation Act Does

This bill asks the federal government to take a closer look at nuclear energy around the world and figure out how the United States can better compete in the global nuclear market. Essentially, it's about understanding where nuclear power stands internationally and making sure America stays relevant in this industry while protecting national security.

The bill requires the Secretary of Energy to study the worldwide nuclear energy industry within a year, looking at everything from how other countries use nuclear power in their foreign policy to what challenges American nuclear companies face from foreign competition. The study will examine whether nuclear energy can help reduce pollution and carbon emissions compared to other power sources, and it will look at the supply chains that keep nuclear plants running. The government will then report back to Congress with recommendations on how the U.S. can develop a national strategy to use nuclear energy as a tool in diplomacy and foreign policy, similar to how countries like Russia and China already do.

Beyond just studying the issue, 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. This positions the U.S. as a leader in nuclear technology and safety standards globally. The bill also establishes a new branch within the Nuclear Regulatory Commission specifically focused on helping American companies export nuclear reactors and technology internationally, with support from universities, national laboratories, and private companies.

Finally, the bill adds a national security safeguard by preventing American companies from using nuclear fuel made by Russia or China unless the Secretaries of Energy and State specifically approve it. This protects the U.S. from becoming dependent on these countries for critical nuclear materials and gives the government time to review any such arrangements for security risks.

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.