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NRC Allows Power Companies to Lead Nuclear Security Drills

4/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will allow power companies to lead security drills at U.S. nuclear plants beginning in 2028, replacing agency-led inspections.
Current NRC-led drills will continue through the end of the triennial cycle, after which companies will conduct drills with NRC oversight.
Edwin Lyman of the Union of Concerned Scientists argues change could weaken inspections and readiness against terrorist attacks.
The NRC is reviewing other nuclear safety regulations.

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Story summary

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will allow power companies to lead security drills at U.S. nuclear plants beginning in 2028, replacing agency-led inspections.
Current NRC-led drills will continue through the end of the triennial cycle, after which companies will conduct drills with NRC oversight.
Edwin Lyman of the Union of Concerned Scientists argues change could weaken inspections and readiness against terrorist attacks.
The NRC is reviewing other nuclear safety regulations.