FR 2021-02175

The document at hand is a Notice from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), found in the Federal Register under citation 86 FR 7749, and is dated February 1, 2021. It outlines the schedule for public meetings for February and early March 2021, held under the Government in the Sunshine Act. The meetings are set to occur at the Commissioners' Conference Room in Rockville, Maryland, although they will be conducted virtually due to COVID-19.

General Summary

The NRC has scheduled public meetings during February and part of March 2021, with a focus on key topics like dry cask storage and transportation of spent nuclear fuel, as well as considerations regarding equal employment opportunity, affirmative employment, and small business. Specifically, discussions on the regulatory framework surrounding nuclear fuel storage will occur on February 11, while topics concerning employment and business policy will be discussed on February 18. Weeks without scheduled meetings include February 1, February 22, March 1, and March 8. In response to the ongoing pandemic, all meetings will be webcasted with no physical public attendance.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One notable issue with this document is the absence of detailed financial information regarding the cost of holding these meetings, either virtually or otherwise. This lack of transparency makes it challenging to assess the potential for wasteful spending or financial favoritism towards specific organizations or individuals. Moreover, the term "tentative" used in relation to the scheduling of meetings introduces uncertainty about whether certain meetings have been canceled or merely postponed, which could create ambiguity for those planning to attend.

The document also repeatedly lists contact information for requesting reasonable accommodations, which, while important, may benefit from being more consolidated for ease of understanding.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the virtual nature of these meetings ensures broader accessibility and participation, regardless of geographic location. This move to webcast the sessions accommodates the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, allowing more secure public involvement in NRC discussions. Importantly, this method supports public health while maintaining transparency.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders interested in nuclear regulation, employment policies, and small business considerations, these meetings provide a crucial opportunity to engage with NRC's regulatory updates and priorities. The session on dry cask storage and transportation of spent nuclear fuel is particularly relevant for those in the nuclear industry, as it pertains to safety and environmental standards critical to their operations. Similarly, the briefing on employment equity and small businesses may directly impact organizations and individuals advocating for workplace diversity and business opportunities.

However, the lack of detailed budgeting information may concern stakeholders wishing to scrutinize or query NRC's financial decisions. Additionally, any changes or uncertainty surrounding the meeting schedules, hinted at by the term "tentative," may make it hard for stakeholders to prepare their participation fully.

In conclusion, while the document addresses important regulatory discussions and provides clear methods for public engagement, there exists room for improvement in financial transparency and clarity around meeting schedules.