Barrasso provision encourages extension of uranium recovery licenses to 20 years.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) successfully included a provision in the Nuclear Energy Innovation and Modernization Act (S. 2795) to address excessive licensing requirements for Wyoming’s uranium producers. 

The bill was passed by the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee.

Wyoming produces more than 60 percent of America’s uranium. At present, producers have to apply for a uranium recovery license with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) every 10 years. This expensive process is often delayed.   

Barrasso’s provision requires the NRC to study the issue and report on the safety and feasibility of extending uranium recovery licenses from 10 to 20 years.

“Wyoming is the country’s leading producer of uranium, and we want it to stay that way,” said Barrasso. “Extending these licenses will help save time and money for both producers and the NRC. I look forward to the full Senate taking up this bill.” 

Barrasso also raised this issue at a recent EPW hearing with NRC Chairman Stephen Burns. At the hearing, Burns expressed optimism about the possibility of extending the duration of licenses. 

The Nuclear Energy Innovation and Modernization Act now heads to the full Senate for consideration. 

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