Combating nuclear terrorism : federal efforts to respond to nuclear and radiological threats and to protect key emergency response facilities could be strengthened : testimony before the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia, Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, U.S. Senate / statement of Gene Aloise.

Portion of title Federal efforts to respond to nuclear and radiological threats and to protect key emergency response facilities could be strengthened
SeriesTestimony ; GAO-08-285 T
Testimony GAO-08-285 T. ^A682308
Abstract The Department of Energy (DOE) maintains emergency response capabilities and assets to quickly respond to potential nuclear and radiological threats in the United States. These capabilities are primarily found at DOE's two key emergency response facilities--the Remote Sensing Laboratories at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, and Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. These capabilities took on increased significance after the attacks of September 11, 2001, because of heightened concern that terrorists may try to detonate a nuclear or radiological device in a major U.S. city. DOE is not the only federal agency responsible for addressing nuclear and radiological threats. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for preparing the country to prevent and respond to a potential nuclear or radiological attack. This testimony discusses (1) the benefits of using DOE's aerial background radiation surveys to enhance emergency response capabilities and (2) the physical security measures in place at DOE's two key emergency response facilities and whether they are consistent with DOE guidance. It is based on GAO's report on DOE's nuclear and radiological emergency response capabilities, issued in September 2006 (Combating Nuclear Terrorism: Federal Efforts to Respond to Nuclear and Radiological Threats and to Protect Emergency Response Capabilities Could be Strengthened [Washington, D.C.: Sept. 21, 2006]).
General noteTitle from title screen (viewed on Nov. 16, 2007).
General note"For release ... November 15, 2007."
General notePaper version available from: U.S. Govt. Accountability Office, 441 G St., NW, Rm. LM, Washington, D.C. 20548.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references.
Technical detailsMode of access: Internet. Address as of 11/16/07: http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d08285t.pdf ; current access available via PURL.
GPO item number0546-D-01 (online)
Govt. docs number GA 1.5/2:GAO-08-285 T

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Electronic Resources ✔ Available