May 14, 2026
Mr. Donalds (for himself and Mr. Auchincloss) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce
To require the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to allow the use of commercial-grade steel and concrete in non-safety-related structures at nuclear power plants, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act of 2026
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Sec. 2. Use of commercial-grade steel and concrete
(a) In general
Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (referred to in this section as the Commission
) shall initiate a rulemaking that authorizes the use of commercial-grade steel and concrete in non-safety-related structures at nuclear power plants, unless, subject to subsection (b), the Commission determines that stricter material standards are necessary to address a specific safety risk.
(b) Determination
The Commission may make a determination under subsection (a) that stricter material standards are necessary to address a specific safety risk if the Commission determines that not using a stricter material standard would be contrary to the common defense and security and adequate protection of the public health and safety (within the meaning of section 182 a. of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. 2232(a))).