49 U.S.C. § 5118: Hazardous material technical assessment, research and development, and analysis program

reducing the risks associated with the transportation of hazardous material; and identifying and evaluating new technologies to facilitate the safe, secure, and efficient transportation of hazardous material. utilize information gathered from other modal administrations with similar programs; coordinate with other modal administrations, as appropriate; and coordinate, as appropriate, with other Federal agencies. In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall work cooperatively with regulated and other entities, including shippers, carriers, emergency responders, State and local officials, and academic institutions. As part of the program established under subsection (a), the Secretary may carry out cooperative research on hazardous materials transport. The Secretary may enter into an agreement with the National Academies to support research described in paragraph (1). emergency planning and response, including information and programs that can be readily assessed and implemented in local jurisdictions; risk analysis and perception and data assessment; commodity flow data, including voluntary collaboration between shippers and first responders for secure data exchange of critical information; integration of safety and security; cargo packaging and handling; hazmat release consequences; and materials and equipment testing.