Safeguarding National Security Through Public Release of Environmental Information: Moving the Debate to the Next Level
Abstract
This article first discusses the evolution of community right-to-know laws in the United States, examining the purpose and effectiveness of such laws. It traces the development of such laws, including the Freedom of Information Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Chemical Safety Information, Site Security and Fuels Regulatory Relief Act The article then focuses on the current state of the law regarding release or withholding of chemical-hazard information and pending legislation in this area of the law. A practical exercise is used to demonstrate that terrorist or criminal organizations can easily access chemical hazard information from non-governmental sources and use it as targeting data regardless of whether such information is released publicly. The article concludes by taking the position that full disclosure of chemical hazard information would enhance national security by allowing communities to prepare for attacks through proper planning and preparation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 31, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA406616
Entities
People
- Joseph D. Jacobson
Organizations
- George Washington University