James M. Jeffords: “homeland security experts refer to chemical plants as ``pre-positioned weapons of mass destruction.'' Yet more than 3…”

“homeland security experts refer to chemical plants as ``pre-positioned weapons of mass destruction.'' Yet more than 3 years after the September 11 attacks, the Bush administration has done almost nothing to enhance the security of the estimated 15,000 chemical facilities in the United States. I therefore support the amendment of Senator Corzine to provide $100 million for State and local efforts to enhance the safety of communities around chemical plants. These funds are needed to allow for expanded law enforcement presence around plants, better training and preparation for first responders and local officials, and additional guidance for plant managers. This is just a first step, however. Communities cannot do it alone. To truly enhance security, chemical sources must implement security plans that address their unique vulnerabilities. Some facilities have already made considerable improvements, such as repositioning storage tanks away from public roads and hiring more guards. Here in Washington, DC, the Blue Plains water treatment plant went one step further by switching from chlorine to bleach, thereby reducing the inherent hazards posed by their operations. Notwithstanding these improvements, numerous media and government reports continue to document significant security gaps at many facilities. National legislation mandating federally enforceable minimum standards is long overdue.”