Chemical Security Getting On the Right Track

Statement of Jen Kim, NJPIRG State Director, on President Obama’s Executive Order on Chemical Security

NJPIRG

TRENTON—“The President’s Executive Order is a great step forward in modernizing the security of our chemical facilities.”

“From the vinyl chloride spill in Paulsboro, New Jersey to the West, Texas ammonium nitrate explosion, the past nine months have been filled with crashes, spills, and explosions that threaten public health and safety. Upgrading chemical security is long overdue.”

“New Jerseyans face more threats than most; over 12 million people (including in New York and Pennsylvania) would be at risk if there was a spill or accident at one of New Jersey’s high-risk chemical plants. The combination of our dense population and number of dangerous chemical facilities equals a risk too big to bear for NJ families. ”

“With this direction by the White House, we encourage the EPA to use its authority under the Clean Air Act to require the use of safer alternatives and processing wherever possible. Clorox demonstrated that it was feasible to convert to safer alternatives back in 2009, and phased out the use of deadly chlorine gas. Now we need the Administration’s help in making sure that all high-risk facilities do the same.”

“Given the number of recent transit-related chemical accidents, we encourage the agencies going forward to include upgrading the safety requirements for transporting toxic materials on their list of priorities.”

“We’re encouraged by today’s announcement and look forward to working with the Administration and other stakeholders to minimize the risks posed by our nation’s biggest chemical threats.”

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NJPIRG is a statewide, non partisan, non profit consumer advocacy group.
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