Publication

In order for the United States to engage in civilian nuclear cooperation with other states, it must conclude a framework agreement that meets specific requirements under Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act (AEA). The AEA also provides for exemptions to these requirements, export control licensing procedures, and criteria for terminating cooperation. Congressional review is required for section 123 agreements; the AEA establishes special parliamentary procedures by which Congress may act on a proposed agreement. This paper gives an overview of Section 123, other areas of the Act that deal with export licensing, the termination of cooperation and other issues, as well as debate in Congress on the oversight of nuclear cooperation agreements.