[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4982-S4983]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TRANSCAER PROGRAM

 Mr. KAINE. Madam President, I would like to recognize the 40th 
anniversary of the Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency 
Response, TRANSCAER, program and its contributions to hazardous 
materials transportation safety and emergency preparedness.
  Since its establishment in 1986, TRANSCAER has become a trusted 
public-private partnership bringing together industry, emergency 
responders, government agencies, and community stakeholders to advance 
safety and preparedness nationwide. The program has provided critical 
training and outreach to hundreds of thousands of emergency responders 
across the United States and enhanced their ability to respond safely 
and effectively to hazardous materials incidents. It has also delivered 
a wide range of training initiatives, including classroom instruction, 
hands-on exercises, virtual learning, and full-scale drills that 
reflect real-world response challenges. TRANSCAER has also continued to 
evolve to address emerging risks associated with hazardous materials, 
including lithium-ion batteries and alternative fuels, while 
complementing Federal efforts to enhance our country's emergency 
response capabilities.
  Through the dedication of volunteers, industry leaders, emergency 
responders, and partner organizations who have contributed their time, 
expertise, and resources, TRANSCAER has strengthened community 
resilience by improving coordination, communication, and preparedness 
before, during, and after hazardous materials transportation incidents. 
The program reflects the shared commitment of public and private sector 
partners to protect communities, safeguard the environment, and support 
those who serve on the frontlines of emergency response. On the 40th 
anniversary of the program, I would like to once again recognize 
TRANSCAER for its significant contributions to hazardous materials 
transportation safety, emergency preparedness, and community 
resilience, and express my gratitude to the emergency responders, 
volunteers, industry partners, and organizations who have supported its 
mission over the past four decades.

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