The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is under increasing pressure to address significant radiological security risks, particularly those associated with dirty bombs. A recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealed that the NRC has not acted on 11 of the 18 recommendations made to enhance security measures against such threats. The GAO warns that a dirty bomb could inflict damages exceeding $30 billion, highlighting the potential economic and societal repercussions of inadequate regulatory oversight. Critics argue that the NRC's focus has largely been on the immediate health effects of radioactive materials, while broader social and economic consequences have been overlooked. The GAO has called for congressional action to bridge these regulatory gaps, but the path forward remains uncertain amid a divided Congress and a busy legislative agenda. This situation raises concerns about the preparedness of the U.S. to handle potential radiological threats, including the implications for public safety and economic stability. The NRC's inaction on these critical recommendations has sparked debate among lawmakers and security experts about the need for comprehensive reforms to ensure the nation's safety against dirty bomb threats. As discussions continue, the urgency for the NRC to address these risks becomes increasingly apparent, underscoring the importance of proactive measures in nuclear regulation. [184b86c8]