Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act of 2024

1/3/2025, 1:24 PM

Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act

This bill directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to streamline the process for individuals applying for or renewing enrollment in multiple security threat assessment (STA) programs, in particular the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and the Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) programs.

Among other things, the TSA must

  • permit an individual to enroll at a TSA-authorized enrollment center once and use the application, as well as information generated by TSA’s vetting, to enroll in any other programs;
  • permit an individual to enroll in more than one STA program at the same time for a single fee that is less than the combined fee for applying to the same programs separately;
  • provide for a streamlined and expeditious renewal process; and
  • provide states the expiration dates for each individual’s STA to ensure commercial driver's licenses include an individual's current HME status.

Additionally, the TSA must publish on its website information relating to the streamlining of the enrollment system.

If the TSA determines it is necessary to implement these changes through rulemaking, the bill provides for an expedited rulemaking process.

Bill 118 hr 5840, also known as the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act, aims to improve and modernize the screening process for transportation security in the United States. The bill focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of security screenings at airports, train stations, and other transportation hubs.

One key aspect of the bill is the implementation of new technologies and procedures to streamline the screening process. This includes the use of advanced screening equipment, such as body scanners and explosive detection systems, to improve the detection of potential threats. Additionally, the bill calls for increased training for security personnel to ensure they are equipped to handle evolving security threats.

Another important provision of the bill is the establishment of a centralized database for screening information. This database will allow for better coordination and sharing of information between different transportation security agencies, ultimately improving the overall security of the transportation system. Furthermore, the bill includes measures to enhance passenger privacy protections and ensure that screening procedures are conducted in a respectful and non-discriminatory manner. This includes provisions to prohibit the use of certain invasive screening techniques and to provide clear guidelines for passenger rights during the screening process. Overall, the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act seeks to modernize and improve the transportation security screening process in the United States, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and passenger privacy protections.
Congress
118
Number
HR - 5840
Introduced on
2023-09-29
# Amendments
0
Sponsors
+5
Cosponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

9/29/2023
Text
PDF
XML

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act

This bill directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to streamline the process for individuals applying for or renewing enrollment in multiple security threat assessment (STA) programs, in particular the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and the Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) programs.

Among other things, the TSA must

  • permit an individual to enroll at a TSA-authorized enrollment center once and use the application, as well as information generated by TSA’s vetting, to enroll in any other programs;
  • permit an individual to enroll in more than one STA program at the same time for a single fee that is less than the combined fee for applying to the same programs separately;
  • provide for a streamlined and expeditious renewal process; and
  • provide states the expiration dates for each individual’s STA to ensure commercial driver's licenses include an individual's current HME status.

Additionally, the TSA must publish on its website information relating to the streamlining of the enrollment system.

If the TSA determines it is necessary to implement these changes through rulemaking, the bill provides for an expedited rulemaking process.

Bill 118 hr 5840, also known as the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act, aims to improve and modernize the screening process for transportation security in the United States. The bill focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of security screenings at airports, train stations, and other transportation hubs.

One key aspect of the bill is the implementation of new technologies and procedures to streamline the screening process. This includes the use of advanced screening equipment, such as body scanners and explosive detection systems, to improve the detection of potential threats. Additionally, the bill calls for increased training for security personnel to ensure they are equipped to handle evolving security threats.

Another important provision of the bill is the establishment of a centralized database for screening information. This database will allow for better coordination and sharing of information between different transportation security agencies, ultimately improving the overall security of the transportation system. Furthermore, the bill includes measures to enhance passenger privacy protections and ensure that screening procedures are conducted in a respectful and non-discriminatory manner. This includes provisions to prohibit the use of certain invasive screening techniques and to provide clear guidelines for passenger rights during the screening process. Overall, the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act seeks to modernize and improve the transportation security screening process in the United States, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and passenger privacy protections.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo require the Transportation Security Administration to streamline the enrollment processes for individuals applying for a Transportation Security Administration security threat assessment for certain programs, including the Transportation Worker Identification Credential and Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment programs of the Administration, and for other purposes.
Policy Areas
Transportation and Public Works
Potential Impact
Administrative law and regulatory procedures•
Department of Homeland Security•
Government information and archives•
Transportation safety and security

Comments

Related

Member:  Eleanor Holmes Norton
Member:  Rudy Yakym III
Member:  Adam B. Schiff
Member:  Carlos A. Gimenez
Member:  Thomas H. Kean, Jr.
Member:  Angie Craig
Member:  Ken Calvert
Bill Update Alert:  Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act of 2024
Committee:  Homeland Security

Recent Activity

Latest Summary10/21/2024

Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act

This bill directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to streamline the process for individuals applying for or renewing enrollment in multiple security t...

Latest Action12/17/2024
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 725.