(a) PurposesThe purposes of this section are—
(1)
to establish continuing liaison and to provide for supply chain security cooperation between Department and the private sector; and
(2)
to provide for regular and timely interchange of information between the private sector and the Department concerning developments and security risks in the supply chain environment.
(c) Consultation
In developing the system under subsection (b), the Secretary shall consult with the Commercial Operations Advisory Committee and a broad range of public and private sector entities likely to utilize the system, including importers, exporters, carriers, customs brokers, and freight forwarders, among other parties.
(d) Independently obtained information
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit or otherwise affect the ability of a Federal, State, or local government entity, under applicable law, to obtain supply chain security information, including any information lawfully and properly disclosed generally or broadly to the public and to use such information in any manner permitted by law.
(e) Authority to issue warningsThe Secretary may provide advisories, alerts, and warnings to relevant companies, targeted sectors, other governmental entities, or the general public regarding potential risks to the supply chain as appropriate. In issuing a warning, the Secretary shall take appropriate actions to protect from disclosure—