Atomic Energy Act
- The Atomic Energy Act is a law that set up the Atomic Energy Commission and endowed it with the power to manage all facets of atomic energy, which includes research, development, trial, and production of nuclear warheads. This law was formed because of a perceived need by those outside the government and military, including scientists from the Manhattan Project, to institute independent controls over nuclear technology. The Act additionally established a joint congressional committee on atomic energy. Amendments were added in 1954 to invite more participation from private nuclear-industry interests. By 1974, both the AEC and the joint committee were dissolved, with their roles reassigned to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Energy Research and Development Administration, and various congressional subcommittees. The Energy Research and Development Administration ceased operation in 1977 with the creation of the Department of Energy
- The Atomic Energy Act was instrumental in developing strict regulations for nuclear technology.
- After the formation of the Department of Energy in 1977, the responsibilities of the Energy Research and Development Administration, as set by the Atomic Energy Act, were transferred.
- Under the Atomic Energy Act, a joint congressional committee was established to manage atomic energy.
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