IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ

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.

For detailed instructions on converting physical cards to virtual credentials, please click the link
or contact [email protected] for further assistance.

We appreciate your longstanding participation and support of this vital program. It has been
our privilege to serve you.