American Chemistry Council Welcomes Cyber Security Order
The White House executive order, which lists chemical facilities as critical infrastructure, complements ACC's Responsible Care Security Code.
The American Chemistry Council issued a statement welcoming the Cyber Security Executive Order issued Feb. 12 by the Obama administration. The order and accompanying Presidential Policy Directive address security and resilience of specific types of critical infrastructure, including chemical facilities, saying they provide essential services to America.
"We commend the Administration for taking this action to help secure the nation’s cyber systems and engaging with ACC and our members on this important issue," the council's statement says. "The Executive Order will complement the progress of industry programs like ACC's Responsible Care® Security Code by addressing cybersecurity and building on the regulatory requirements already in place for the chemical sector under the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards. While the Executive Order does not create new federal authority to regulate cybersecurity, it will address the need to improve the flow of information between the government and the private sector. The sharing of accurate, timely and actionable threat information is critical to creating a successful partnership to counter cyber attacks. Security continues to be a top priority for ACC and our members, and we are committed to working with the Administration and Congress on sensible approaches that protect cyber systems and the privacy of information as well as promote the free flow of commerce."
According to the description posted on the White House's website, the executive order and directive update the national approach from Homeland Security Presidential Directive 7, issued in 2003, "to adjust to the new risk environment, key lessons learned, and drive toward enhanced capabilities."