The government is worried about the safety of chemical facilities across the country after its power to keep dangerous substances out of the hands of extremists lapsed a month ago.
The Department of Homeland Security has long had the ability to inspect facilities where chemicals are used or stored to make sure their security systems are in place. And the facilities themselves have been required to vet prospective employees for any terrorism links.
But the program, called the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards, expired July 28 after Congress failed to renew it. Homeland Security officials say this left gaping holes in the country’s national security, and they are calling on Congress to act quickly when it returns this week.
This admin is so eager to give more power to Homeland Security. Look I’m super concerned about the safety of chemical research facilities. Why? Nature: US Military sent Live Anthrax to Labs
US Bio Research Failed Procedures
There is a long history of labs being one or two safety/containment levels below what’s necessary for the materials they are working with.
Here’s some NEW news, report not yet released (ethics in journalism be damned) US Bio Labs Lack Proper Oversight
In short, these labs need more funding along with that oversight. Use public money to keep research honest and to keep information from being gatekept. It’s one of the absolute best uses of taxpayer funding.