However, by 1998, with RMP disclosure looming, over 100 companies signed up for such a seminar in the same location. If there is a problem from potential terrorism, then there is still a problem if information is kept off the Internet. Keeping information off the Internet doesn't reduce actual hazards. The security agencies, EPA, industry, and Congress cannot identify a hazard and simply walk away without doing anything other than impeding public access to information. Secrecy does not address the problem.
Secrecy invites complacency.
We need real programs to reduce hazards, regardless of their proximate cause. Naturally, not all hazard reduction activity originates at the Federal level, but we do need Federal leadership. The security agencies should work with EPA to devise strict regulations that protect the most hazardous facilities against terrorist attack. The chemical industry should publicly commit to a quantifiable plan and timeline to reduce hazards such that facilities no longer threaten surrounding communities. Congress should look close to home.