ACD Press Release

ACD, ACC Underscore Value of CFATS Program with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Officials

After more than a year of expiration, efforts continue to get the program back online

Arlington, VA –Today, Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) and the American Chemistry Council (ACC) joined officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to underscore the tremendous value the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program provides industry and government in protecting sensitive chemical facilities from acts of terror. ACD and ACC also highlighted the ongoing steps taken to urge Congress to reauthorize this program, following its expiration more than a year ago on July 28, 2023.

ACD’s Eric Byer and ACC’s Chris Jahn speak before DHS staff on the value the CFATS program provides the chemical industry

Following the meeting, ACD’s President and CEO Eric R. Byer and ACC’s President and CEO Chris Jahn released the following statements:

“For nearly two decades, the CFATS program was recognized as the global standard for chemical security, giving both industry and government peace of mind in the efforts taken to keep communities safe and support the critical and safe operations of our industry,” said Byer. “Unfortunately, with the program’s expiration last July, facilities have had to manage a vital segment of our nation’s critical infrastructure without collaboration, communication, and support from DHS. ACD has been urging Congress to reauthorize this program for well over a year now to secure these sensitive facilities from the unthinkable risk a terrorist attack could bring. We appreciate DHS’ continued support of the CFATS program, and we call on Congress to get this program back online without further delay.”

“CFATS provided a powerful one-two punch in the fight against terrorism. The program was highly effective in helping companies vet personnel for potential ties to terrorism and beef up their security plans,“ said Jahn. “CFATS is a good example of how smart regulations can help protect the country and provide value to the regulated community. Congress must do its job to protect America and restore CFATS.”

Tomorrow is the 23^rd anniversary of the heinous terrorist attacks targeting the U.S., on September 11, 2001, and serves as a grim reminder of the absolute need for urgency in reinstating this program. History can’t be allowed to repeat itself, and it is the responsibility of our Congress to wield whatever tools at its disposal to ensure it won’t.

###

The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) partners with our more than 400 chemical distribution industry members to provide the education, connection, standards, and advocacy they need to responsibly move the essential products our world depends on. As leaders in the $27B+ chemical distribution industry, ACD member companies commit to the highest standards in quality, safety, sustainability, and performance through ACD Responsible Distribution^TM. For more information, visit www.acd-chem.com.