Story perspectives

Trump Administration Fast-Tracks Controversial Wyoming Reactor Approval

12/4/2025

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration expedited the safety review of the Natrium reactor in Kemmerer, Wyoming, co-founded by Bill Gates.
The NRC found no safety issues preventing a construction permit for the Natrium reactor, which uses passive features.
Critics say regulators are loosening safety requirements amid political influence over the NRC.
Construction is likely to proceed despite environmental assessments, and former NRC officials warn this could heighten risk.

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Story summary

The U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration expedited the safety review of the Natrium reactor in Kemmerer, Wyoming, co-founded by Bill Gates.
The NRC found no safety issues preventing a construction permit for the Natrium reactor, which uses passive features.
Critics say regulators are loosening safety requirements amid political influence over the NRC.
Construction is likely to proceed despite environmental assessments, and former NRC officials warn this could heighten risk.