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TSA’s implementation of the PATRIOT Act requires drivers seeking an HME to undergo a fingerprint-based background check. This program has resulted in a significant reduction in the number of qualified drivers with HMEs. ATA has lobbied Congress for comprehensive relief from this expensive requirement and has sought to have the TWIC card function as the security credential for drivers transporting Security Sensitive Hazardous Materials (SSHM).
In July 2007, Congress passed legislation that allowed all drivers holding TWIC cards to be automatically considered as having passed federal background checks for a HME. ATA continues to advocate that TSA move to implement this requirement. While piecemeal fixes provide some relief, they fall short of our goal to have the TWIC serve as the single, universally accepted, security credential.
ATA continues to lobby Congress to enact meaningful reforms such as those espoused in Rep. Lungren’s SAFE Truckers Act, which would require DHS to identify a list of security sensitive materials and require drivers transporting those materials to obtain a TWIC. Drivers transporting hazardous materials that are not deemed security sensitive would undergo a less costly and less burdensome name-based check to obtain or renew their hazardous materials endorsements. The bill was approved by the Subcommittee in the last Congress and was recently reintroduced by Rep. Lungren.
ATA will continue to push for this bill which has strong bipartisan support. At this time, Canadian and Mexican drivers can comply with the present HME requirements by undergoing a FAST screening and obtaining a FAST card.
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