GAO raises concern on dirty bombs
The nation is taking too long to secure radioactive materials nationwide that could get into terrorists’ hands, the Government Accountability Office reported.
Radioactive material used for legitimate purposes in medical equipment and food, for instance, could be used to create an explosive device known as a dirty bomb. Experts think such an attack would be confined to a small area but could have a significant psychological effect and serious economic consequences because of cleanup problems.
According to the GAO, new requirements to ensure that a person purchasing or carrying radioactive materials has a reason to do so are more than three years behind schedule.
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