Energy Reorganization Act of 1974

The Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 was U.S. legislation that restructured the regulatory framework for nuclear power. It created the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to oversee safety and regulation of nuclear reactors, separating this from the Atomic Energy Commission, which focused on energy production and research. This split aimed to improve safety, accountability, and efficiency in managing nuclear energy, especially following concerns raised by incidents like the Three Mile Island accident. Overall, the act modernized nuclear oversight, emphasizing stricter safety standards and clearer regulation to protect public health and the environment.