	Background

Several security incidents in the late 1990s highlighted the need for improvements at DOE. DOE and NNSA Have Implemented Many Initiatives, and Lessons Can Be Learned to Improve Future Initiatives

DOE and NNSA have implemented 64 percent of the 75 nuclear security initiatives developed since 1998. Of the remaining initiatives, most are to be completed by December 2002. NNSA Has Begun to Develop a Security Structure and Program, but Key Issues Need to Be Addressed

Since NNSA’s creation, its officials have taken some steps to develop a security structure and program, including staffing offices, developing guidance, reviewing security policies and procedures, and initiating actions to create a security-oriented culture. However, several key issues still need to be addressed to ensure an effective security structure and program. Along with these activities, NNSA has also initiated actions to create a security-oriented culture in its organization. DOE and NNSA have made progress in implementing many of the nuclear security initiatives developed since 1998. Completed. Completed. Completed. Department of Energy: Views on the Progress of the National Nuclear Security Administration in Implementing Title 32.
What GAO Found

In response to persistent security weaknesses at nuclear weapons facilities during the late 1990s, the Department of Energy (DOE) undertook several initiatives and Congress created the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as a separate entity with DOE. DOE and NNSA have made progress in implementing many of the 75 initiatives undertaken since 1998. Lessons from these initiatives could help improve implementation of future efforts. DOE and NNSA have completed 64 percent of the initiatives, and most of the rest should be completed by December 2002. NNSA has begun a security organization and program to safeguard nuclear information and materials, but several key issues still need to be addressed to ensure the new program's effectiveness. NNSA has almost completed staffing the two new offices created to lead its security and counterintelligence activities and, with DOE, is completing a detailed review of security policies and procedures. NNSA has also begun specific activities, including training, to create a security-oriented culture in its organization.