Substitute for House Concurrent Resolution No. 42.

            A concurrent resolution to memorialize Congress to extend the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program.

            Whereas, Ten years ago, America suffered through the worst terrorist attack in its history. Our country grieved for those who lost their lives and we rediscovered the heroes who make us proud to be Americans. The events of September 11, 2001, changed many things for our country, including how we view homeland security; and

            Whereas, After September 11th, the American chemical industry recognized the need to re-examine its approach to security to make sure the nation's chemical facilities, which are central to our economy and face heightened terrorist threats, were adequately protected. Since then, industry initiatives and investments, coupled with a comprehensive set of common sense government regulations, have vastly improved the security of the nation's chemical facilities; and           

            Whereas, The Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program, enacted with strong bipartisan support in 2007, has proven to be one of the most important regulatory programs administered by the Department of Homeland Security. Under the CFATS program, chemical facilities across the country, including scores in Michigan, are taking action to prevent terrorist attacks and lower the attractiveness of chemical facilities as potential targets of terrorism. The CFATS program addresses the need to protect chemical facilities, while preserving the chemical industry's ability to provide essential jobs and products; and

            Whereas, With the CFATS program set to expire in October 2012, it is imperative that Congress pass a long-term extension for the program to keep moving forward on chemical security, to enhance public safety, and to protect the more than 60,000 jobs across Michigan that are dependent on the chemical industry. Extending the CFATS program will allow the chemical industry to enhance that which has already been achieved so far, a more secure nation, a steady source of jobs, and the validation of the United States' reputation as a leader in innovation; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That we memorialize Congress to extend the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.