Christopher Hanson. Photo: NRC file
The Senate today confirmed NRC Chair Christopher Hanson to another five-year term.
Why it matters: Hanson will guide the Nuclear Regulatory Commission through a crucial period for licensing the next generation of nuclear reactors.
Driving the news: The Senate voted 81-17 to approve his nomination.
- Top Republicans, including EPW Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito, largely voted in favor.
- The "no" votes came from GOP senators, including Joni Ernst, Marco Rubio, Rick Scott and Tim Scott.
Zoom in: Hanson and the commission have been working on a rulemaking that could ease the regulatory path for advanced reactors.
- And commissioners may soon be tasked with implementing a broader set of policy changes — if lawmakers can pass the compromise ADVANCE Act into law.
Hanson was sworn in as a commissioner in June 2020. He was previously a Senate Appropriations staffer overseeing civilian and national security nuclear programs.
