The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is changing radiation standards by removing the long-standing goal of ALARA - As Low As Reasonable Achievable. The proposed rule would allow 10 times higher radioactivity in nuclear plants, causing twice the radiation exposure to workers. Plus, polluters would also be allowed to apply for “alternate” public dose limits, with no upper bound.
There is no "safe" level of exposure. Radiological protection guidelines must be strengthened and centered on those most harmed. The proposed rule serves the profit motive of the nuclear power industry and giant tech companies betting on AI data centers, ignoring the immense damage from nuclear waste to all of us. Increases in the radioactive releases from nuclear power plants, hospitals, and academic institutions will lead to more radioactive pollution in our air, food, and water. If we protect those who are most at risk, we will be able to protect everyone better.
Can you say NO to these changes before August 31?
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- This rule eliminates ALARA — the longstanding As Low As Reasonably Achievable standard — exempting industry from precautions that prevent spread of radioactivity to workers, the public, and the environment. (Federal Register Vol. 91, No. 134, p. 43463)
- This rule does not keep up with radiation science, which shows that even one radioactive particle, if ingested via air, food, or water, can cause cancer or illness.
- Current standards are based on an adult male body — not women, not children, not girls. Girls face higher lifetime cancer risks. Pregnancy exposures can affect three generations at once.
- Industry will be allowed to expose the public to more radioactive pollution just by asking for an exemption, effectively deregulating itself.
- There is no obvious way for the public to object to or refuse radioactive exposures under this rule — it amounts to silencing public opposition.
- The NRC claims to maintain current protection levels while weakening them — a duplicitous claim. This proposed rule shifts cost from industry to public health.
