**Over Three Years Since Crucial US Chemical Plant Security Initiative Lapsed: GAO Advocates for Enhanced Security Protocols**
More than three years after the termination of the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) in July 2023, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) is advocating for immediate voluntary actions to help chemical facilities mitigate terrorist threats. CFATS, managed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), had previously conducted inspections and provided security recommendations for 3,200 high-risk sites dealing with dangerous chemicals. The end of CFATS ceased the vetting of around 9,000 individuals each month for terrorist affiliations.
A recent GAO report suggests that CISA should investigate voluntary vetting alternatives and pursue legislative backing for these initiatives. Nevertheless, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees CISA, argues that the expiration of CFATS hinders compulsory facility reporting and inspections, as well as aligning vetting procedures with federal terrorist watch lists.
Tina Won Sherman from GAO underscores major issues following the conclusion of CFATS, particularly CISA’s inability to pinpoint high-risk facilities, keep track of chemicals, perform inspections, vet staff, or impose security measures. The number of CISA personnel dedicated to supporting the chemical sector plummeted from 214 to 52 between 2024 and 2025, with further cuts expected.
The American Chemistry Council and other figures urge the reinstatement of CFATS, stressing its essential role in chemical facility safety. Patrick Coyle, an expert in chemical safety and security, recommends incorporating voluntary personnel vetting into CISA’s ChemLock programme, although it would require additional funding and guidance from Congress. He also advises that chemical facilities think about mandating their employees to acquire Transportation Workers Identification Credentials (TWIC) to bolster security.
Despite multiple unsuccessful legislative efforts to renew CFATS, the possibility of its revival continues to be a topic of conversation, keeping its fate uncertain.