Congress Preserves Chemical Safety Board Funding for FY 2026

The future of the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) became clearer earlier this year after Congress approved funding that preserves the agency's operations through fiscal year 2026.

As reported in the previous issue of this newsletter, the Administration's FY 2026 budget proposal called for eliminating the CSB's base funding and beginning the process of closing the agency. Congress ultimately reached a different conclusion.

In January, lawmakers approved a funding package that maintains CSB funding at approximately $14 million for the remainder of FY 2026, consistent with the agency's FY 2025 funding level. The decision allows the CSB to continue carrying out its statutory mission of investigating major chemical incidents and identifying root causes that can inform improvements in industrial safety practices.

The outcome followed engagement from engineers, safety professionals, and other stakeholders who emphasized the importance of maintaining an independent agency focused on chemical accident investigations and prevention.

Through NSPE's advocacy center, Professional Engineers sent nearly 850 messages to members of Congress highlighting the role the CSB plays in advancing public safety and supporting lessons learned across industries that handle hazardous materials. State societies also helped elevate the issue by sharing information with members and encouraging engagement with federal policymakers.

With Congress finalizing funding for FY 2026, NSPE has concluded the grassroots campaign related to the CSB appropriations debate.

Although the agency's funding has been preserved for the current fiscal year, the broader policy discussion surrounding the CSB's long term role continues. The Administration's earlier proposal to eliminate the agency remains part of the federal budget debate, and future appropriations cycles may revisit the issue.

NSPE will continue monitoring developments affecting the CSB and other federal entities whose work intersects with engineering practice and public safety.