It will soon be easier and cheaper for truckers to get security credentials, like TWIC (ports) and HME (HAZMAT).
Both the House and Senate have bipartisan bills seeking to standardize the security application process for the trucking industry.
Currently, truckers seeking certain security access to federal facilities often must navigate TSA’s clearance process that is inefficient and costly.
Why, because it forces essential workers to pay duplicative fees and undergo duplicative background checks to obtain the credentials they need to do their jobs, such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Hazardous Materials Endorsements (HME).
The bills would allow workers to apply existing valid background checks to multiple TSA-managed credentialing programs, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for workers who need multiple security credentials.
ATA President Chris Spear praised the House bill’s approval in committee. “The hardworking truck drivers and other essential transportation workers who keep our supply chain running should not be saddled with redundant background checks and pay duplicative fees to obtain the credentials they need to do their jobs,” Spear said.
“Unfortunately, those who operate at ports and maritime facilities or handle hazardous materials are subject to unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles imposed by the federal government that waste their time and money.”
The House bill advanced to the floor, but a vote has yet to be scheduled.
The Senate bill awaits consideration on the floor of the chamber.
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