FR 2024-30393

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is seeking public feedback on its plan to renew the collection of taxpayer identification numbers (TINs) through NRC Form 531. This request is to maintain compliance with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) requirements. Specifically, the NRC is interested in understanding if the information collected is necessary and useful for its operations. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their comments by February 18, 2025.

General Overview

The NRC is focused on ensuring that TINs are collected from individuals and entities that have business dealings with the federal government. This includes those who hold licenses or permits issued by the NRC. The data gathered will primarily be used by the Department of the Treasury to manage payments and identify any outstanding debts associated with these individuals. The NRC's renewal request underscores the ongoing obligation to engage in data collection under federal law. Forms such as NRC Form 531 facilitate the essential process of gathering standard taxpayer data for regulatory compliance and fiscal operations.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Some aspects of this renewal process may raise concerns:

1. Consequences for Non-Submission: The document does not outline what might happen if NRC Form 531 is not submitted. This lack of clarity can lead to misunderstandings among those required to comply, creating an area of potential vulnerability for unintentional non-compliance.

2. Relevance of Data Collection: Collecting TINs in this manner could appear somewhat tangential to the NRC’s primary regulatory functions. For those unfamiliar with government processes, the use of collected TINs primarily to manage debt might seem like overreach.

3. Complex Language: The explanation regarding the use of TINs by the Department of the Treasury can be sophisticated and may not be easily comprehended by all licensees. This complexity might hinder effective compliance and engagement, especially among those with minimal exposure to federal debt collection procedures.

4. Estimations of Compliance Time: The document indicates an estimated annual compliance burden of 37.5 hours without substantiating how this figure was derived. This raises questions about the burdens placed on respondents and whether the expectation is reasonable.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, the impact on the public will depend on individual or business interactions with the NRC. The renewal of this form does not introduce new requirements but reinforces the existing need to supply taxpayer information. For many, the process may continue as a routine administrative action. However, without adequate clarification on the submission process and its implications, there could be increased hesitancy or confusion about compliance obligations.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Licensees and Applicants: These groups will likely experience the most direct influence from this document. Ensuring that their taxpayer identity is accurately reported and managed remains critical to their continuous interactions with the NRC. Misunderstandings due to complex language or perceived bureaucratic overreach could create unnecessary administrative burdens.

• Government Agencies: Other federal agencies relying on accurate debt management through TINs may benefit from this continued collection. Efficient use of these data points could lead to improved treasury operations and debt recovery processes.

In sum, while the renewal of NRC Form 531 serves a critical governmental task, the NRC could enhance its documentation by providing clearer explanations of consequences for non-compliance, simplifying language, and detailing the time calculations related to compliance activities. This may foster improved understanding and cooperation from stakeholders who interact with these regulatory mechanisms.