Homeland Security Proposes to Restrict Purchase, Sale of Ammonium Nitrate

The Department of Homeland Security is proposing a rule that would restrict the sale, purchase, and transfer of ammonium nitrate, a common component of fertilizer, to prevent its use in acts of terrorism.

Under the proposed rule, to be published in the Federal Register Aug. 3, only individuals favorably vetted by the department would be able to legally acquire the substance above a certain threshold level.

Persons owning or operating an ammonium nitrate facility, and those intending to purchase the substance, would have to register with the department. Those selling the substance would be required to retain records and to ...