Comments Requested on High-Level Rad Waste Definition

Comments Requested on High-Level Rad Waste Definition.pdf

On October 10, 2018 (83 FR 50909) the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE or the Department) provided a Notice and request for public comment on its interpretation of the definition of the statutory term “high-level radioactive waste” (HLW) as set forth in the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982.  This statutory term indicates that not all wastes from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel (“reprocessing wastes”) are HLW, and DOE interprets the statutory term such that some reprocessing wastes may be classified as not HLW (non-HLW) and may be disposed of in accordance with their radiological characteristics.  DOE invites stakeholders to submit written comments on its interpretation.  The 60-day public comment period begins on October 10, 2018 and ends on December 10, 2018.  DOE will consider all comments received or postmarked by December 10, 2018.