New law eliminates redundant background checks for truckers applying for TSA credentials, including TWIC and HME
Lawmakers passed a bill that will cut down on red tape for truckers applying for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) credentials including Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Hazardous Materials Endorsements (HME).
On December 23, 2024, the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act of 2024 was signed into law by President Biden. It will allow truckers to use existing valid background checks for multiple TSA credentials without paying a duplicative cost.
The new law seeks to modernize current TSA policies which often require essential transportation workers, including truckers, to submit and pay for separate applications for required credentials like the TWIC and HME.
Specifically, the new Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act of 2024 will require the TSA to take the following actions:
- 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 security threat assessment (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
- Provide states the expiration dates for each individual’s STA to ensure commercial driver’s licenses include an individual’s current HME status
The new law was endorsed by multiple trade groups including the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, the American Trucking Associations (ATA), National Propane Gas Association, Transportation Trades Department, Border Trade Alliance, National Tank Truck Carriers, Mississippi Trucking Association, Association of the American Railroads, American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, and National Energy and Fuels Institute.
“For far too long, the truck drivers who keep our country running have been subjected to an outdated, inefficient credentialing system that does not respect their time and money. That begins to change today. By taking the final step needed to eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, Congress will provide essential supply chain workers with overdue relief from redundant background checks and fees,” said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear.