Fact Check: Trump's Executive Order Demands Nuclear Reactor Approvals Within 18 Months
What We Know
On May 23, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at reforming the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to expedite the approval process for new nuclear reactors. The order specifically mandates that the NRC must issue a final decision on applications to construct and operate new reactors within 18 months from the start of the regulatory process (source-1). This directive is part of a broader strategy to enhance the United States' energy independence and leadership in nuclear technology, which includes increasing nuclear capacity from approximately 100 gigawatts (GW) in 2024 to 400 GW by 2050 (source-2).
The executive order also emphasizes the need for a more efficient regulatory framework that aligns with the congressional mandate to facilitate the civilian use of nuclear energy without unnecessary limitations (source-3).
Analysis
The claim that Trump's executive order demands nuclear reactor approvals within 18 months is substantiated by the text of the executive order itself, which clearly states that the NRC shall establish a deadline of no more than 18 months for final decisions on new reactor applications (source-1). This is further supported by various analyses and summaries of the executive orders, which highlight the intent to streamline the licensing process and reduce regulatory hurdles (source-4).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they include official government documents and reputable news outlets that report on presidential actions. The executive order itself is a primary source, providing direct evidence of the claim. The Associated Press, a well-respected news organization, corroborates the details of the order, reinforcing its credibility (source-4).
Conclusion
The claim that Trump's executive order demands nuclear reactor approvals within 18 months is True. The executive order explicitly sets this timeline as part of its broader goal to reform the NRC and enhance the United States' nuclear energy capabilities. The evidence from both the executive order and credible news sources confirms the accuracy of this statement.
