42 U.S.C. § 18936 — Neutron scattering

(a) Strategic plan for the Institute neutron reactor. The Director must develop a strategic plan for the future of the NIST Center for Neutron Research, for after the current neutron reactor is decommissioned, including: (1) a succession plan for the reactor, with a timeline and milestones; (2) a conceptual design for a new reactor and accompanying facilities, as appropriate; and (3) a plan to minimize disruptions to the people who use the reactor during the transition. (b) Coordination with the Department of Energy. The Secretary, acting through the Director, must coordinate with the Secretary of Energy on issues related to federal support for neutron science, including estimating long-term needs for neutron-source research and planning future facilities to meet those needs. (c) Report to Congress. Within 30 months of August 9, 2022, the Director must submit to Congress the plan required under subsection (a), and must notify Congress of any substantial updates to the plan in later years.