(a) Whenever an area has been approved by the President for site characterization, and upon request of a State or an affected Indian Tribe, the Director shall make NRC staff available to consult with representatives of such States and Tribes.

(b) Requests for consultation shall be made in writing to the Director.

(c) Consultation under this section may include:

(1) Keeping the parties informed of the Director's views on the progress of site characterization.

(2) Review of applicable NRC regulations, licensing procedures, schedules, and opportunities for State and Tribe participation in the Commission's regulatory activities.

(3) Cooperation in development of proposals for State and Tribe participation in license reviews.