Number: RL32152
Title: The BioWatch Program: Detection of Bioterrorism
Authors: Dana A. Shea, Resources, Science, and Industry Division; and Sarah A. Lister, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: The BioWatch Program garners public and Congressional interest for a variety of reasons, including its cost, the future development and testing of similar systems, the effectiveness of the currently deployed system, the process by which this program was chosen and deployed, and the consequence-management process envisioned in response to a BioWatch warning. These issues may raise questions about the role that the Department of Homeland Security plays with respect to the public health infrastructure, aspects of federal and state communication and coordination, and the role of the federal and state governments in protecting the populace against biological attack.
Pages: 22
Date: Updated November 19, 2003