At the end of 2026, CEAS and its supporting program will be discontinued. We are providing this advanced notification to give you sufficient time to adjust your business continuity planning. The BNET Board of Directors reached this decision with careful consideration, acknowledging that the program has effectively achieved its original objective of enhancing coordination between the public and private sectors during emergencies.

Since its inception in 2000, the CEAS program has significantly increased awareness of the vital role private sector organizations play in response and recovery following emergencies. Numerous metropolitan regions and states in the Mid-Atlantic and New England joined the initiative, recognizing the critical importance of essential employee access for maintaining business operations.

Over the years, business requirements have evolved. Recent experiences, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated that the widespread adoption of remote work environments has reduced the necessity for essential staff to physically access company facilities. With technological advancements and greater awareness, it is now appropriate to sunset the CEAS program. This decision was made in coordination with relevant public sector partners.

Effective January 1, 2026, BNET will no longer process annual subscription renewals. Current subscriptions and credentials will remain valid until their scheduled expiration dates.  As previously communicated, existing unexpired physical cards will continue to be honored; otherwise, participants should use virtual credentials.