S.Amdt. 6563

SA 6563, submitted by Mr. Schiff, aims to add a new section (SEC. 358) to bill S. 4784. The purpose is to establish guidance for community engagement and emergency preparedness for covered defense industrial facilities.

Key Changes and Requirements

The amendment requires the Secretary of Defense to create guidance within one year that mandates covered facilities to:

• Coordinate regularly with first responders, law enforcement, and local emergency management agencies.
• Appoint a community liaison for communication.
• Have procedures to notify local authorities and communities after incidents like explosions, fires, or releases that risk public health and safety.
• Make information about protective actions and notification procedures available to the public.
• Hold informational briefings or outreach for local stakeholders.
• Create ways for community members to ask questions or share concerns about operations.

Scope and Accountability

Covered facilities are those operated by subcontractors or prime contractors that support Department of Defense contracts and handle materials that the Secretary determines pose a significant risk to surrounding communities.

To ensure accountability, the Secretary of Defense must report to congressional defense committees every year for 5 years. These reports must include:

• How the section is being implemented.
• Which categories of facilities are subject to the guidance.
• Any significant incidents reported, which are defined as events leading to a public health emergency, a disaster declaration, or an evacuation.
• Corrective actions taken after those incidents.
• Recommendations for further legislative authority if needed.

Limitations

The amendment states that the disclosure of proprietary, classified, export-controlled, operational security, or controlled unclassified information is not required, especially if it would increase national security risks.