ASTRO submits comments on NRC proposed rule to modernize regulations for byproduct material use
July 8, 2026
On July 1, 2026, ASTRO submitted supportive comments on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) proposed rule to modernize regulations for byproduct material use. The comments focused on the proposed exemption of unsealed radionuclides with half-lives under 120 days from facility-specific decommissioning cost estimates, noting this would reduce administrative and financial burden and could improve patient access.
The letter also supports creating Standard General Licenses for low risk uses, provided the NRC clarifies they apply only to materials that do not require written directives. Additionally, ASTRO supports relying on the existing Part 35 definition of physician and allowing radiopharmacies to prepare and distribute radioactive microspheres under expanded eligibility to reduce regulatory burden and improve clarity.
