There are approximately 3,500 local emergency planning committees across the nation. Emergency Response Community Has Varied Views on the Adequacy of Federally Required Chemical Information and the Manner in Which It Is Delivered

The members of the emergency response community we contacted have varied views on the adequacy of the information reported in chemical inventory forms and risk management plans and on the manner in which that information is delivered. Representatives from the National Volunteer Fire Council believe that forms need to be electronic to be useful. EPA’s Sense of Compliance with the Risk Management Plan Requirements Varies

EPA officials told us that the agency has undertaken several efforts to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act’s risk management program.
What GAO Found

The United States has become increasingly aware of the need to be prepared for emergencies, including those involving hazardous chemicals. The local emergency responders and representatives from national organizations that GAO contacted have varied views on the adequacy of (1) information in chemical inventory forms and risk management plans and (2) the manner in which that information is delivered. Most members of the emergency response community believe that the manner of delivery of federally required information could be improved. Environmental Protection Agency officials cited their efforts to ensure compliance with provisions of the Clean Air Act's risk management program. However, their sense of the extent of compliance varies across three specific provisions; that is, the extent to which (1) facilities have registered risk management plans, (2) the plans contain accurate information, and (3) local responders are receiving the plans.