The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is an independent U.S. government agency responsible for licensing and regulating civilian use of nuclear energy. Created by the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974, the NRC opened on January 9, 1975. The NRC took over the role of oversight of nuclear energy matters from the Atomic Energy Commission. Its mission is to regulate U.S. civilian use of by-products, sources, and special nuclear materials to ensure adequate protection of public health and safety, to promote the common defense and security, and to protect the environment. The NRC is headed by a five-member commission, each appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate for 5-year terms. With more than 3,500 employees in 2014, the NRC is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland. The ...