What federal agency is primarily responsible for nuclear surety in the United States?

The federal agency primarily responsible for nuclear surety in the United States is the Department of Energy (DOE). This agency oversees the management of the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile and the associated activities that ensure their safe and secure handling, including the development of nuclear policy, nuclear safety, and security standards. The DOE conducts research and development in nuclear technology and is involved in the implementation of regulatory measures to ensure the safe use of nuclear materials.

The DOE's role encompasses a wide range of activities related to nuclear surety, including maintaining the security of nuclear facilities, ensuring the safety of shipment and storage of nuclear materials, and managing the environmental impacts of nuclear energy. This comprehensive responsibility sets the DOE apart as the key agency in the realm of nuclear surety compared to other agencies that might focus on more specific areas or have different mandates.