Fact Check: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission stated that it could continue its work without Christopher T. Hanson, as it has functioned in the past with fewer than five commissioners.

Fact Check: "The Nuclear Regulatory Commission stated that it could continue its work without Christopher T. Hanson, as it has functioned in the past with fewer than five commissioners."

What We Know

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is an independent agency responsible for regulating nuclear reactors and ensuring safety standards in the United States. Following the termination of Commissioner Christopher T. Hanson, the NRC confirmed that it could continue its operations without him. The agency stated, "The NRC has functioned in the past with fewer than five commissioners and will continue to do so" (NPR). This assertion is backed by historical precedent, as the NRC has operated effectively with fewer than five members in the past, demonstrating its resilience and operational capacity under such circumstances (AP News).

Analysis

The claim that the NRC can continue its work without Christopher T. Hanson is substantiated by the agency's own statements and historical context. The NRC has indeed functioned with fewer than the full complement of five commissioners previously, which indicates that the agency's operations are not solely dependent on having a full board at all times.

The reliability of the sources reporting this information is generally high. NPR, AP News, and Politico are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards and fact-checking protocols. Their reports on the NRC's capabilities following Hanson's dismissal align with the official statements made by the NRC itself, which adds credibility to the claim (NPR, AP News, Politico).

However, it's important to note that while the NRC can function with fewer commissioners, the effectiveness and decision-making processes may be impacted. Critics have raised concerns about the implications of such dismissals on the agency's independence and operational integrity (NPR, The Hill). Nonetheless, the NRC's assertion that it can continue its work stands firm based on its historical functioning and operational protocols.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission stated it could continue its work without Christopher T. Hanson, as it has functioned in the past with fewer than five commissioners, is accurate. The NRC has confirmed its ability to operate under such conditions, supported by historical precedent and reliable reporting from credible sources.

Sources

1. Commissioner Christopher T. Hanson | NRC.gov
2. OVERSIGHT OF THE NUCLEAR REGULATORY ...
3. President Trump fires a member of the Nuclear Regulatory ...
4. Trump fires Democratic commissioner of Nuclear ...
5. Trump fires Democratic member of nuclear energy safety ...
6. Trump fires former Biden chair from Nuclear Regulatory ...
7. Geoff Brumfiel - X
8. NIA Statement on the Firing of NRC Commissioner ...