46 USC Subtitle VII, CHAPTER 701, SUBCHAPTER I: GENERAL

From Title 46—SHIPPINGSubtitle VII—Security and Drug EnforcementCHAPTER 701—PORT SECURITY

SUBCHAPTER I—GENERAL

Editorial Notes

Amendments

Pub. L. 111–330, §1(17)(A), Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3570, amended Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §828(c)(1), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3007, which added subchapter I heading.

§70101. Definitions

For the purpose of this chapter:

(1) The term "Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan" means an Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan prepared under section 70103(b).

(2) The term "cybersecurity risk" has the meaning given the term in section 2200 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002.

(3) The term "facility" means any structure or facility of any kind located in, on, under, or adjacent to any waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

(4) The term "National Maritime Transportation Security Plan" means the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan prepared and published under section 70103(a).

(5) The term "owner or operator" means—

(A) in the case of a vessel, any person owning, operating, or chartering by demise, such vessel; and

(B) in the case of a facility, any person owning, leasing, or operating such facility.

(6) The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating.

(7) The term "transportation security incident" means a security incident resulting in a significant loss of life, environmental damage, transportation system disruption, or economic disruption in a particular area. In this paragraph, the term "economic disruption" does not include a work stoppage or other employee-related action not related to terrorism and resulting from an employee-employer dispute.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2068; amended Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §124, Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1900; Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1805(b), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3534; Pub. L. 117–263, div. G, title LXXI, §7143(d)(10), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3664.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 2200 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, referred to in par. (2), is classified to section 650 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Amendments

2022—Par. (2). Pub. L. 117–263 substituted "section 2200 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002" for "section 227 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148)".

2018—Pars. (2) to (7). Pub. L. 115–254 added par. (2) and redesignated former pars. (2) to (6) as (3) to (7), respectively.

2006—Par. (6). Pub. L. 109–347 inserted at end "In this paragraph, the term 'economic disruption' does not include a work stoppage or other employee-related action not related to terrorism and resulting from an employee-employer dispute."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Regulations

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(d), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2084, provided that:

"(1) Interim final rule authority.—The Secretary shall issue an interim final rule as a temporary regulation implementing this section [enacting this subtitle and provisions set out as notes under sections 70104 and 70114 of this title] (including the amendments made by this section) as soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this section [Nov. 25, 2002], without regard to the provisions of chapter 5 of title 5, United States Code. All regulations prescribed under the authority of this subsection that are not earlier superseded by final regulations shall expire not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2002].

"(2) Initiation of rulemaking.—The Secretary may initiate a rulemaking to implement this section (including the amendments made by this section) as soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this section. The final rule issued pursuant to that rulemaking may supersede the interim final rule promulgated under this subsection."

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.

Maritime Border Security Cooperation

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1814, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3540, provided that: "The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall, in accordance with law—

"(1) partner with other Federal, State, and local government agencies to leverage existing technology, including existing sensor and camera systems and other sensors, in place along the maritime border to facilitate monitoring of high-risk maritime borders, as determined by the Secretary; and

"(2) subject to the availability of appropriations, enter into such agreements as the Secretary considers necessary to ensure the monitoring described in paragraph (1)."

Integrated Cross-Border Maritime Law Enforcement Operations Between the United States and Canada

Pub. L. 112–213, title VII, §711, Dec. 20, 2012, 126 Stat. 1581, provided that:

"(a) Authorization.—The Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, may establish an Integrated Cross-Border Maritime Law Enforcement Operations Program to coordinate the maritime security operations of the United States and Canada (in this section referred to as the 'Program').

"(b) Purpose.—The Secretary, acting through the Commandant, shall administer the Program in a manner that results in a cooperative approach between the United States and Canada to strengthen border security and detect, prevent, suppress, investigate, and respond to terrorism and violations of law related to border security.

"(c) Training.—The Secretary, acting through the Commandant and in consultation with the Secretary of State, may—

"(1) establish, as an element of the Program, a training program for individuals who will serve as maritime law enforcement officers; and

"(2) conduct training jointly with Canada to enhance border security, including training—

"(A) on the detection and apprehension of suspected terrorists and individuals attempting to unlawfully cross or unlawfully use the international maritime border between the United States and Canada;

"(B) on the integration, analysis, and dissemination of port security information by and between the United States and Canada;

"(C) on policy, regulatory, and legal considerations related to the Program;

"(D) on the use of force in maritime security;

"(E) on operational procedures and protection of sensitive information; and

"(F) on preparedness and response to maritime terrorist incidents.

"(d) Coordination.—The Secretary, acting through the Commandant, shall coordinate the Program with other similar border security and antiterrorism programs within the Department of Homeland Security.

"(e) Memoranda of Agreement.—The Secretary may enter into any memorandum of agreement necessary to carry out the Program."

Waterside Security of Especially Hazardous Cargo

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §812, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2995, provided that:

"(a) National Study.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall—

"(A) initiate a national study to identify measures to improve the security of maritime transportation of especially hazardous cargo; and

"(B) coordinate with other Federal agencies, the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee, and appropriate State and local government officials through the Area Maritime Security Committees and other existing coordinating committees, to evaluate the waterside security of vessels carrying, and waterfront facilities handling, especially hazardous cargo.

"(2) Matters to be included.—The study conducted under this subsection shall include—

"(A) an analysis of existing risk assessment information relating to waterside security generated by the Coast Guard and Area Maritime Security Committees as part of the Maritime Security Risk Analysis Model;

"(B) a review and analysis of appropriate roles and responsibilities of maritime stakeholders, including Federal, State, and local law enforcement and industry security personnel, responsible for waterside security of vessels carrying, and waterfront facilities handling, especially hazardous cargo, including—

"(i) the number of ports in which State and local law enforcement entities are providing any services to enforce Coast Guard-imposed security zones around vessels transiting to, through, or from United States ports or to conduct security patrols in United States ports;

"(ii) the number of formal agreements entered into between the Coast Guard and State and local law enforcement entities to engage State and local law enforcement entities in the enforcement of Coast Guard-imposed security zones around vessels transiting to, through, or from United States ports or the conduct of port security patrols in United States ports, the duration of those agreements, and the aid that State and local entities are engaged to provide through such agreements;

"(iii) the extent to which the Coast Guard has set national standards for training, equipment, and resources to ensure that State and local law enforcement entities engaged in enforcing Coast Guard-imposed security zones around vessels transiting to, through, or from United States ports or in conducting port security patrols in United States ports (or both) can deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident;

"(iv) the extent to which the Coast Guard has assessed the ability of State and local law enforcement entities to carry out the security assignments that they have been engaged to perform, including their ability to meet any national standards for training, equipment, and resources that have been established by the Coast Guard in order to ensure that those entities can deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident;

"(v) the extent to which State and local law enforcement entities are able to meet national standards for training, equipment, and resources established by the Coast Guard to ensure that those entities can deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident;

"(vi) the differences in law enforcement authority, and particularly boarding authority, between the Coast Guard and State and local law enforcement entities, and the impact that these differences have on the ability of State and local law enforcement entities to provide the same level of security that the Coast Guard provides during the enforcement of Coast Guard-imposed security zones and the conduct of security patrols in United States ports; and

"(vii) the extent of resource, training, and equipment differences between State and local law enforcement entities and the Coast Guard units engaged in enforcing Coast Guard-imposed security zones around vessels transiting to, through, or from United States ports or conducting security patrols in United States ports;

"(C) recommendations for risk-based security measures to improve waterside security of vessels carrying, and waterfront facilities handling, especially hazardous cargo; and

"(D) identification of security funding alternatives, including an analysis of the potential for cost-sharing by the public and private sectors as well as any challenges associated with such cost-sharing.

"(3) Information protection.—In carrying out the coordination necessary to effectively complete the study, the Commandant shall implement measures to ensure the protection of any sensitive security information, proprietary information, or classified information collected, reviewed, or shared during collaborative engagement with maritime stakeholders and other Government entities, except that nothing in this paragraph shall constitute authority to withhold information from—

"(A) the Congress; or

"(B) first responders requiring such information for the protection of life or property.

"(4) Report.—Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 15, 2010], the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall submit to the Committees on Homeland Security and Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study under this subsection.

"(b) National Strategy.—Not later than 6 months after submission of the report required by subsection (a), the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall develop, in conjunction with appropriate Federal agencies, a national strategy for the waterside security of vessels carrying, and waterfront facilities handling, especially hazardous cargo. The strategy shall utilize the results of the study required by subsection (a).

"(c) Security of Especially Hazardous Cargo.—[Amended section 70103 of this title.]

"(d) Definitions.—For the purposes of this section, the follow[ing] definitions apply:

"(1) Especially hazardous cargo.—The term 'especially hazardous cargo' means anhydrous ammonia, ammonium nitrate, chlorine, liquefied natural gas, liquiefied petroleum gas, and any other substance, material, or group or class of material, in a particular amount and form that the Secretary determines by regulation poses a significant risk of creating a transportation security incident while being transported in maritime commerce.

"(2) Area maritime security committee.—The term 'Area Maritime Security Committee' means each of those committees responsible for producing Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans under chapter 701 of title 46, United States Code.

"(3) Transportation security incident.—The term 'transportation security incident' has the same meaning as that term has in section 70101 of title 46, United States Code."

Risk Based Resource Allocation

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §827, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3004, provided that:

"(a) National Standard.—Within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 15, 2010], in carrying out chapter 701 of title 46, United States Code, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall develop and utilize a national standard and formula for prioritizing and addressing assessed security risks at United State ports and facilities on or adjacent to the waterways of the United States, such as the Maritime Security Risk Assessment Model that has been tested by the Department of Homeland Security.

"(b) Use by Maritime Security Committees.—Within 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall require each Area Maritime Security Committee to use this standard to regularly evaluate each port's assessed risk and prioritize how to mitigate the most significant risks.

"(c) Other Uses of Standard.—The Secretary shall utilize the standard when considering departmental resource allocations and grant making decisions.

"(d) Use of Maritime Risk Assessment Model.—Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall make the United States Coast Guard's Maritime Security Risk Assessment Model available, in an unclassified version, on a limited basis to regulated vessels and facilities to conduct true risk assessments of their own facilities and vessels using the same criteria employed by the Coast Guard when evaluating a port area, facility, or vessel."

Watch Lists for Passengers Aboard Vessels

Pub. L. 108–458, title IV, §4071, Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3729, provided that:

"(a) Watch Lists.—

"(1) In general.—As soon as practicable but not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 17, 2004], the Secretary of Homeland Security shall—

"(A) implement a procedure under which the Department of Homeland Security compares information about passengers and crew who are to be carried aboard a cruise ship with a comprehensive, consolidated database containing information about known or suspected terrorists and their associates;

"(B) use the information obtained by comparing the passenger and crew information with the information in the database to prevent known or suspected terrorists and their associates from boarding such ships or to subject them to specific additional security scrutiny, through the use of 'no transport' and 'automatic selectee' lists or other means.

"(2) Waiver.—The Secretary may waive the requirement in paragraph (1)(B) with respect to cruise ships embarking at foreign ports if the Secretary determines that the application of such requirement to such cruise ships is impracticable.

"(b) Cooperation From Operators of Cruise Ships.—The Secretary of Homeland Security shall by rulemaking require operators of cruise ships to provide the passenger and crew information necessary to implement the procedure required by subsection (a).

"(c) Maintenance of Accuracy and Integrity of 'No Transport' and 'Automatic Selectee' Lists.—

"(1) Watch list database.—The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Terrorist Screening Center, shall develop guidelines, policies, and operating procedures for the collection, removal, and updating of data maintained, or to be maintained, in the 'no transport' and 'automatic selectee' lists described in subsection (a)(1) that are designed to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the lists.

"(2) Accuracy of entries.—In developing the 'no transport' and 'automatic selectee' lists under subsection (a)(1)(B), the Secretary shall establish a simple and timely method for correcting erroneous entries, for clarifying information known to cause false hits or misidentification errors, and for updating relevant information that is dispositive in the passenger and crew screening process. The Secretary shall also establish a process to provide an individual whose name is confused with, or similar to, a name in the watch list database with a means of demonstrating that such individual is not the person named in the database.

"(d) Cruise Ship Defined.—In this section, the term 'cruise ship' means a vessel on an international voyage that embarks or disembarks passengers at a port of United States jurisdiction to which subpart C of part 160 of title 33, Code of Federal Regulations, applies and that provides overnight accommodations."

Vessel and Intermodal Security Reports

Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §809(g), (i), formerly §809(g)–(i), (k), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1087, 1088, renumbered and amended by Pub. L. 113–284, §2(a)(1), (2)(B), Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 3089, which required an annual report on compliance and steps taken to ensure compliance by ports, terminals, vessel operators, and shippers with security standards established pursuant to section 70103 of this title, was repealed by Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXII [LXXXII], §8240(b), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4666.

Findings

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §101, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2066, provided that:

"The Congress makes the following findings:

"(1) There are 361 public ports in the United States that are an integral part of our Nation's commerce.

"(2) United States ports handle over 95 percent of United States overseas trade. The total volume of goods imported and exported through ports is expected to more than double over the next 20 years.

"(3) The variety of trade and commerce carried out at ports includes bulk cargo, containerized cargo, passenger transport and tourism, and intermodal transportation systems that are complex to secure.

"(4) The United States is increasingly dependent on imported energy for a substantial share of its energy supply, and a disruption of that share of supply would seriously harm consumers and our economy.

"(5) The top 50 ports in the United States account for about 90 percent of all the cargo tonnage. Twenty-five United States ports account for 98 percent of all container shipments. Cruise ships visiting foreign destinations embark from at least 16 ports. Ferries in the United States transport 113,000,000 passengers and 32,000,000 vehicles per year.

"(6) Ports often are a major locus of Federal crime, including drug trafficking, cargo theft, and smuggling of contraband and aliens.

"(7) Ports are often very open and exposed and are susceptible to large scale acts of terrorism that could cause a large loss of life or economic disruption.

"(8) Current inspection levels of containerized cargo are insufficient to counter potential security risks. Technology is currently not adequately deployed to allow for the nonintrusive inspection of containerized cargo.

"(9) The cruise ship industry poses a special risk from a security perspective.

"(10) Securing entry points and other areas of port facilities and examining or inspecting containers would increase security at United States ports.

"(11) Biometric identification procedures for individuals having access to secure areas in port facilities are important tools to deter and prevent port cargo crimes, smuggling, and terrorist actions.

"(12) United States ports are international boundaries that—

"(A) are particularly vulnerable to breaches in security;

"(B) may present weaknesses in the ability of the United States to realize its national security objectives; and

"(C) may serve as a vector or target for terrorist attacks aimed at the United States.

"(13) It is in the best interests of the United States—

"(A) to have a free flow of interstate and foreign commerce and to ensure the efficient movement of cargo;

"(B) to increase United States port security by establishing improving communication among law enforcement officials responsible for port security;

"(C) to formulate requirements for physical port security, recognizing the different character and nature of United States port facilities, and to require the establishment of security programs at port facilities;

"(D) to provide financial assistance to help the States and the private sector to increase physical security of United States ports;

"(E) to invest in long-term technology to facilitate the private sector development of technology that will assist in the nonintrusive timely detection of crime or potential crime at United States ports;

"(F) to increase intelligence collection on cargo and intermodal movements to address areas of potential threat to safety and security; and

"(G) to promote private sector procedures that provide for in-transit visibility and support law enforcement efforts directed at managing the security risks of cargo shipments.

"(14) On April 27, 1999, the President established the Interagency Commission on Crime and Security in United States Ports to undertake a comprehensive study of the nature and extent of the problem of crime in our ports, as well as the ways in which governments at all levels are responding. The Commission concluded that frequent crimes in ports include drug smuggling, illegal car exports, fraud, and cargo theft. Internal conspiracies are an issue at many ports and contribute to Federal crime. Criminal organizations are exploiting weak security at ports to commit a wide range of cargo crimes. Intelligence and information sharing among law enforcement agencies needs to be improved and coordinated at many ports. A lack of minimum physical and personnel security standards at ports and related facilities leaves many ports and port users very vulnerable. Access to ports and operations within ports is often uncontrolled. Security-related and detection-related equipment, such as small boats, cameras, large-scale x-ray machines, and vessel tracking devices, are lacking at many ports.

"(15) The International Maritime Organization and other similar international organizations are currently developing a new maritime security system that contains the essential elements for enhancing global maritime security. Therefore, it is in the best interests of the United States to implement new international instruments that establish such a system."

Maritime Security Professional Training

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §109, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2090, as amended by Pub. L. 117–286, §4(a)(293), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4338, provided that:

"(a) In General.—

"(1) Development of standards.—Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2002], the Secretary of Transportation shall develop standards and curriculum to allow for the training and certification of maritime security professionals. In developing these standards and curriculum, the Secretary shall consult with the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee established under section 70112 of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this Act.

"(2) Secretary to consult on standards.—In developing standards under this section, the Secretary may, without regard to chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code, consult with the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, the United States Merchant Marine Academy's Global Maritime and Transportation School, the Maritime Security Council, the International Association of Airport and Port Police, the National Cargo Security Council, and any other Federal, State, or local government or law enforcement agency or private organization or individual determined by the Secretary to have pertinent expertise.

"(b) Minimum Standards.—The standards established by the Secretary under subsection (a) shall include the following elements:

"(1) The training and certification of maritime security professionals in accordance with accepted law enforcement and security guidelines, policies, and procedures, including, as appropriate, recommendations for incorporating a background check process for personnel trained and certified in foreign ports.

"(2) The training of students and instructors in all aspects of prevention, detection, investigation, and reporting of criminal activities in the international maritime environment.

"(3) The provision of off-site training and certification courses and certified personnel at United States and foreign ports used by United States-flagged vessels, or by foreign-flagged vessels with United States citizens as passengers or crewmembers, to develop and enhance security awareness and practices.

"(c) Training Provided to Law Enforcement and Security Personnel.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary is authorized to make the training opportunities provided under this section available to any Federal, State, local, and private law enforcement or maritime security personnel in the United States or to personnel employed in foreign ports used by vessels with United States citizens as passengers or crewmembers.

"(2) Academies and schools.—The Secretary may provide training under this section at—

"(A) each of the 6 State maritime academies;

"(B) the United States Merchant Marine Academy;

"(C) the Appalachian Transportation Institute; and

"(D) other security training schools in the United States.

"(d) Use of Contract Resources.—The Secretary may employ Federal and contract resources to train and certify maritime security professionals in accordance with the standards and curriculum developed under this Act [see Tables for classification].

"(e) Annual Report.—The Secretary shall transmit an annual report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on the expenditure of appropriated funds and the training under this section.

"(f) Authorization of Appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $5,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2003 through 2008."

[For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center of the Department of the Treasury to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(4), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.]

Report on Training Center

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §110(b), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2091, provided that: "The Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, in conjunction with the Secretary of the Navy, shall submit to Congress a report, at the time they submit their fiscal year 2005 budget, on the life cycle costs and benefits of creating a Center for Coastal and Maritime Security. The purpose of the Center would be to provide an integrated training complex to prevent and mitigate terrorist threats against coastal and maritime assets of the United States, including ports, harbors, ships, dams, reservoirs, and transport nodes."

Performance Standards

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §111, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2092, provided that: "Not later than January 1, 2004, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in consultation with the Transportation Security Oversight Board, shall—

"(1) develop and maintain an antiterrorism cargo identification, tracking, and screening system for containerized cargo shipped to and from the United States either directly or via a foreign port; and

"(2) develop performance standards to enhance the physical security of shipping containers, including standards for seals and locks."

Report on Foreign-flag Vessels

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §112, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2092, which required the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to provide an annual report regarding all nations whose flag vessels have entered United States ports in the previous year, a separate list of those nations whose registered flag vessels present certain irregularities, actions taken to improve transparency and security of vessel registration procedures in those nations, and recommendations for legislative or other actions to improve security of United States ports, was repealed by Pub. L. 111–207, §4(a)(2), July 27, 2010, 124 Stat. 2251.

§70102. United States facility and vessel vulnerability assessments

(a) Initial Assessments.—The Secretary shall conduct an assessment of vessel types and United States facilities on or adjacent to the waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to identify those vessel types and United States facilities that pose a high risk of being involved in a transportation security incident.

(b) Facility and Vessel Assessments.—(1) Based on the information gathered under subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary shall conduct a detailed vulnerability assessment of the facilities and vessels that may be involved in a transportation security incident. The vulnerability assessment shall include the following:

(A) Identification and evaluation of critical assets and infrastructures.

(B) Identification of the threats to those assets and infrastructures.

(C) Identification of weaknesses in physical security, security against cybersecurity risks, passenger and cargo security, structural integrity, protection systems, procedural policies, communications systems, transportation infrastructure, utilities, contingency response, and other areas as determined by the Secretary.

(2) Upon completion of an assessment under this subsection for a facility or vessel, the Secretary shall provide the owner or operator with a copy of the vulnerability assessment for that facility or vessel.

(3) The Secretary shall update each vulnerability assessment conducted under this section at least every 5 years.

(4) In lieu of conducting a facility or vessel vulnerability assessment under paragraph (1), the Secretary may accept an alternative assessment conducted by or on behalf of the owner or operator of the facility or vessel if the Secretary determines that the alternative assessment includes the matters required under paragraph (1).

(c) Sharing of Assessment Integration of Plans and Equipment.—The owner or operator of a facility, consistent with any Federal security restrictions, shall—

(1) make a current copy of the vulnerability assessment conducted under subsection (b) available to the port authority with jurisdiction of the facility and appropriate State or local law enforcement agencies; and

(2) integrate, to the maximum extent practical, any security system for the facility with compatible systems operated or maintained by the appropriate State, law enforcement agencies, and the Coast Guard.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2068; amended Pub. L. 108–458, title IV, §4072(b), Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3730; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §822, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3003; Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1805(d)(1), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3535.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 115–254, §1805(d)(1)(A), struck out "and by not later than December 31, 2004" after "subsection (a) of this section" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 115–254, §1805(d)(1)(B), inserted "security against cybersecurity risks," after "physical security,".

2010—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 111–281 added subsec. (c).

2004—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 108–458 substituted "and by not later than December 31, 2004, the Secretary" for ", the Secretary" in introductory provisions.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2018 Amendment

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1805(d)(3), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3535, provided that: "The amendments made by this subsection [amending this section and section 70103 of this title] shall apply to assessments or security plans, or updates to such assessments or plans, submitted after the date that the cybersecurity risk assessment model is developed under subsection (a) [46 U.S.C. 70112 note]."

Coordination with TSA on Maritime Facilities

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1803, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3533, provided that: "The Secretary of Homeland Security shall—

"(1) provide the Administrator of the TSA [Transportation Security Administration] with updates to vulnerability assessments required under section 70102(b)(3) of title 46, United States Code, to avoid any duplication of effort between the Coast Guard and the TSA; and

"(2) identify any security gaps between authorities of operating entities within the Department of Homeland Security that a threat could exploit to cause a transportation security incident (as defined in section 70101 of title 46, United States Code)."

Definitions

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1802, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3533, provided that: "In this division [see section 1801 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Short Title of 2018 Amendment note under section 101 of this title]:

"(1) Appropriate committees of congress.—The term 'appropriate committees of Congress' means—

"(A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate;

"(B) the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate;

"(C) the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives; and

"(D) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.

"(2) TSA.—The term 'TSA' means the Transportation Security Administration."

[§70102a. Repealed. Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXV [LXXXV], §8507(d)(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4754]

Section, as added and amended Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §408(a), (b), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4268, related to port, harbor, and coastal facility security.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Repeal effective Dec. 4, 2018, and as if included in Pub. L. 115—282, see section 8507(d)(7) of Pub. L. 116—283, set out as an Effective Date of 2021 Amendment note under section 1226 of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters.

§70103. Maritime transportation security plans

(a) National Maritime Transportation Security Plan.—(1) The Secretary shall prepare a National Maritime Transportation Security Plan for deterring and responding to a transportation security incident.

(2) The National Maritime Transportation Security Plan shall provide for efficient, coordinated, and effective action to deter and minimize damage from a transportation security incident, and shall include the following:

(A) Assignment of duties and responsibilities among Federal departments and agencies and coordination with State and local governmental agencies.

(B) Identification of security resources.

(D) Establishment of procedures for the coordination of activities of—

(i) Coast Guard maritime security teams established under this chapter; and

(ii) Federal Maritime Security Coordinators required under this chapter.

(E) A system of surveillance and notice designed to safeguard against as well as ensure earliest possible notice of a transportation security incident and imminent threats of such a security incident to the appropriate State and Federal agencies.

(F) Establishment of criteria and procedures to ensure immediate and effective Federal identification of a transportation security incident, or the substantial threat of such a security incident.

(G) Designation of—

(i) areas for which Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans are required to be prepared under subsection (b); and

(ii) a Coast Guard official who shall be the Federal Maritime Security Coordinator for each such area.

(H) A risk-based system for evaluating the potential for violations of security zones designated by the Secretary on the waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

(I) A recognition of certified systems of intermodal transportation.

(J) A plan for ensuring that the flow of cargo through United States ports is reestablished as efficiently and quickly as possible after a transportation security incident.

(K) A plan to detect, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity risks that may cause transportation security incidents.

(3) The Secretary shall, as the Secretary considers advisable, revise or otherwise amend the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan.

(4) Actions by Federal agencies to deter and minimize damage from a transportation security incident shall, to the greatest extent possible, be in accordance with the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan.

(5) The Secretary shall inform vessel and facility owners or operators of the provisions in the National Transportation Security Plan that the Secretary considers necessary for security purposes.

(b) Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans.—(1) The Federal Maritime Security Coordinator designated under subsection (a)(2)(G) for an area shall—

(A) submit to the Secretary an Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan for the area; and

(B) solicit advice from the Area Security Advisory Committee required under this chapter, for the area to assure preplanning of joint deterrence efforts, including appropriate procedures for deterrence of a transportation security incident.

(2) The Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan for an area shall—

(A) when implemented in conjunction with the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan, be adequate to deter a transportation security incident in or near the area to the maximum extent practicable;

(B) describe the area and infrastructure covered by the plan, including the areas of population or special economic, environmental, or national security importance that might be damaged by a transportation security incident;

(C) describe in detail how the plan is integrated with other Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans, and with facility security plans and vessel security plans under this section;

(D) include consultation and coordination with the Department of Defense on matters relating to Department of Defense facilities and vessels;

(E) establish area response and recovery protocols to prepare for, respond to, mitigate against, and recover from a transportation security incident consistent with section 202 of the SAFE Port Act of 2006 (6 U.S.C. 942) and subsection (a) of this section;

(F) include any other information the Secretary requires;

(G) include a salvage response plan—

(i) to identify salvage equipment capable of restoring operational trade capacity; and

(ii) to ensure that the waterways are cleared and the flow of commerce through United States ports is reestablished as efficiently and quickly as possible after a maritime transportation security incident;

(H) include a plan for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cybersecurity risks that may cause transportation security incidents; and

(I) be updated at least every 5 years by the Federal Maritime Security Coordinator.

(3) The Secretary shall review and approve Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and updates under this subsection.

(4) In security zones designated by the Secretary in each Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan, the Secretary shall consider—

(A) the use of public/private partnerships to enforce security within the security zones, shoreside protection alternatives, and the environmental, public safety, and relative effectiveness of such alternatives; and

(B) technological means of enhancing the security zones of port, territorial waters, and waterways of the United States.

(c) Vessel and Facility Security Plans.—(1) Within 6 months after the prescription of interim final regulations on vessel and facility security plans, an owner or operator of a vessel or facility described in paragraph (2) shall prepare and submit to the Secretary a security plan for the vessel or facility, for deterring a transportation security incident to the maximum extent practicable.

(2) The vessels and facilities referred to in paragraph (1)—

(A) except as provided in subparagraph (B), are vessels and facilities that the Secretary believes may be involved in a transportation security incident; and

(B) do not include any vessel or facility owned or operated by the Department of Defense.

(3) A security plan required under this subsection shall—

(A) be consistent with the requirements of the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan and Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans;

(B) identify the qualified individual having full authority to implement security actions, and require immediate communications between that individual and the appropriate Federal official and the persons providing personnel and equipment pursuant to subparagraph (C);

(i) establishing and maintaining physical security, passenger and cargo security, and personnel security;

(ii) establishing and controlling access to secure areas of the vessel or facility, including access by persons engaged in the surface transportation of intermodal containers in or out of a port facility;

(iii) procedural security policies;

(iv) communications systems;

(v) detecting, responding to, and recovering from cybersecurity risks that may cause transportation security incidents; and

(vi) other security systems;

(D) identify, and ensure by contract or other means approved by the Secretary, the availability of security measures necessary to deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident or a substantial threat of such a security incident;

(E) describe the training, periodic unannounced drills, and security actions of persons on the vessel or at the facility, to be carried out under the plan to deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident, or a substantial threat of such a security incident;

(F) provide a strategy and timeline for conducting training and periodic unannounced drills;

(G) be updated at least every 5 years;

(H) be resubmitted for approval of each change to the vessel or facility that may substantially affect the security of the vessel or facility; and

(I) in the case of a security plan for a facility, be resubmitted for approval of each change in the ownership or operator of the facility that may substantially affect the security of the facility.

(4) The Secretary shall—

(A) promptly review each such plan or update;

(B) require amendments to any plan or update that does not meet the requirements of this subsection;

(D) subject to the availability of appropriations, periodically, but not less than one time per year, conduct a risk-based, no notice facility inspection to verify the effectiveness of each such facility security plan or update.

(5) A vessel or facility for which a plan is required to be submitted under this subsection may not operate after the end of the 12-month period beginning on the date of the prescription of interim final regulations on vessel and facility security plans, unless—

(A) the plan has been approved by the Secretary; and

(B) the vessel or facility is operating in compliance with the plan.

(6) Notwithstanding paragraph (5), the Secretary may authorize a vessel or facility to operate without a security plan approved under this subsection, until not later than 1 year after the date of the submission to the Secretary of a plan for the vessel or facility, if the owner or operator of the vessel or facility certifies that the owner or operator has ensured by contract or other means approved by the Secretary to deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident or a substantial threat of such a security incident.

(7) The Secretary shall require each owner or operator of a vessel or facility located within or adjacent to waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to implement any necessary interim security measures, including cargo security programs, to deter to the maximum extent practicable a transportation security incident until the security plan for that vessel or facility operator is approved.

(8)(A) The Secretary shall require that the qualified individual having full authority to implement security actions for a facility described in paragraph (2) shall be a citizen of the United States.

(B) The Secretary may waive the requirement of subparagraph (A) with respect to an individual if the Secretary determines that it is appropriate to do so based on a complete background check of the individual and a review of all terrorist watch lists to ensure that the individual is not identified on any such terrorist watch list.

(d) Nondisclosure of Information.—

(1) In general.—Information developed under this section or sections 70102, 70104, and 70108 is not required to be disclosed to the public, including—

(A) facility security plans, vessel security plans, and port vulnerability assessments; and

(B) other information related to security plans, procedures, or programs for vessels or facilities authorized under this section or sections 70102, 70104, and 70108.

(2) Limitations.—Nothing in paragraph (1) shall be construed to authorize the designation of information as sensitive security information (as defined in section 1520.5 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations)—

(A) to conceal a violation of law, inefficiency, or administrative error;

(B) to prevent embarrassment to a person, organization, or agency;

(D) to prevent or delay the release of information that does not require protection in the interest of transportation security, including basic scientific research information not clearly related to transportation security.

(e) Especially Hazardous Cargo.—

(1) Enforcement of security zones.—Consistent with other provisions of Federal law, the Coast Guard shall coordinate and be responsible for the enforcement of any Federal security zone established by the Coast Guard around a vessel containing especially hazardous cargo. The Coast Guard shall allocate available resources so as to deter and respond to a transportation security incident, to the maximum extent practicable, and to protect lives or protect property in danger.

(2) Especially hazardous cargo defined.—In this subsection, the term "especially hazardous cargo" means anhydrous ammonia, ammonium nitrate, chlorine, liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, and any other substance, material, or group or class of material, in a particular amount and form that the Secretary determines by regulation poses a significant risk of creating a transportation security incident while being transported in maritime commerce.

(f) Nondisclosure of Port Security Plans.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, information related to security plans, procedures, or programs for passenger vessels or passenger terminals authorized under this chapter is not required to be disclosed to the public.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2069; amended Pub. L. 108–458, title IV, §4072(a), Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3730; Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §§101–103, 113(c), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1887, 1888, 1896; Pub. L. 111–83, title V, §561(b), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2182; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §§812(c), 826, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2997, 3004; Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §§1805(d)(2), 1806, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3535, 3536; Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §§402(c), 408(d), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4264, 4268; Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXII [LXXXII], §8240(a), title LVXXXIII [LXXXIII], §8344, title LVXXXV [LXXXV], §8507(d)(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4666, 4710, 4754.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section 1226(c) of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters, which was transferred and redesignated as subsec. (f) of this section by Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §§402(c)(1), 408(d)(1), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4264, 4268, was based on section 7(c) of Pub. L. 92–340, as added by Pub. L. 104–324, title III, §302, Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3917.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 116–283, §8344(1), amended par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (3) read as follows: "The Secretary shall—

"(A) review and approve Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans under this subsection; and

"(B) periodically review previously approved Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans."

Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 116–283, §8344(2), inserted "or update" after "plan" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 116–283, §8240(a), amended subsec. (e) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (e) consisted of pars. (1) and (2) relating to enforcement of security zones and resource deficiency reporting, respectively.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 116–283, §8507(d)(1), repealed amendments by Pub. L. 115–282, §408(d). See 2018 Amendment notes below.

2018—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 115–254, §1805(d)(2)(A), substituted "The" for "Not later than April 1, 2005, the".

Subsec. (a)(2)(K). Pub. L. 115–254, §1805(d)(2)(B), added subpar. (K).

Subsec. (b)(2)(H), (I). Pub. L. 115–254, §1805(d)(2)(C), added subpar. (H) and redesignated former subpar. (H) as (I).

Subsec. (c)(3)(v), (vi). Pub. L. 115–254, §1805(d)(2)(D), added cl. (v) and redesignated former cl. (v) as (vi).

Subsec. (c)(4)(D). Pub. L. 115–254, §1806, amended subpar. (D) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (D) read as follows: "subject to the availability of appropriations, verify the effectiveness of each such facility security plan periodically, but not less than 2 times per year, at least 1 of which shall be an inspection of the facility that is conducted without notice to the facility."

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 115–282, §408(d)(2), which directed substitution of "this chapter" for "this Act" identical to amendment made by section 402(c)(2) of Pub. L. 115–282, was repealed by Pub. L. 116–283, §8507(d)(1).

Pub. L. 115–282, §402(c)(2), substituted "this chapter" for "this Act".

Pub. L. 115–282, §408(d)(1), which directed redesignation and transfer of subsec. (c) of section 7 of Pub. L. 92–340 to subsec. (f) of this section identical to amendment made by section 402(c)(1) of Pub. L. 115–282, was repealed by Pub. L. 116–283, §8507(d)(1).

Pub. L. 115–282, §402(c)(1), redesignated and transferred subsec. (c) of section 7 of Pub. L. 92–340 to subsec. (f) of this section. See Codification note above.

2010—Subsec. (b)(2)(E) to (H). Pub. L. 111–281, §826, added subpar. (E) and redesignated former subpars. (E) to (G) as (F) to (H), respectively.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 111–281, §812(c), added subsec.(e).

2009—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 111–83 amended subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Notwithstanding any other provision of law, information developed under this chapter is not required to be disclosed to the public, including—

"(1) facility security plans, vessel security plans, and port vulnerability assessments; and

"(2) other information related to security plans, procedures, or programs for vessels or facilities authorized under this chapter."

2006—Subsec. (b)(2)(F), (G). Pub. L. 109–347, §101, added subpar. (F) and redesignated former subpar. (F) as (G).

Subsec. (c)(3)(C)(ii). Pub. L. 109–347, §102(1)(A), substituted "facility, including access by persons engaged in the surface transportation of intermodal containers in or out of a port facility" for "facility".

Subsec. (c)(3)(F), (G). Pub. L. 109–347, §113(c), added subpar. (F) and redesignated former subpar. (F) as (G). Former subpar. (G) redesignated (H).

Subsec. (c)(3)(H). Pub. L. 109–347, §113(c)(1), redesignated subpar. (G) as (H). Former subpar. (H) redesignated (I).

Pub. L. 109–347, §102(1)(B)–(D), added subpar. (H).

Subsec. (c)(3)(I). Pub. L. 109–347, §113(c)(1), redesignated subpar. (H) as (I).

Subsec. (c)(4)(D). Pub. L. 109–347, §103, amended subpar. (D) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (D) read as follows: "review each plan periodically thereafter."

Subsec. (c)(8). Pub. L. 109–347, §102(2), added par. (8).

2004—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 108–458 substituted "Not later than April 1, 2005, the Secretary" for "The Secretary".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by section 8507(d)(1) of div. G of Pub. L. 116–283 effective Dec. 4, 2018, as if included in Pub. L. 115—282, see section 8507(d)(7) of Pub. L. 116—283, set out as a note under section 1226 of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters.

Effective Date of 2018 Amendment

Amendment of section by section 1805(d) of Pub. L. 115–254 applicable to assessments or security plans, or updates to such assessments or plans, submitted after the date that the cybersecurity risk assessment model is developed under subsection 1805(a) of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a note under section 70112 of this title, see section 1805(d)(3) of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a note under section 70102 of this title.

Transfer of Functions

Seamen's Shoreside Access

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §811, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2995, provided that: "Each facility security plan approved under section 70103(c) of title 46, United States Code, shall provide a system for seamen assigned to a vessel at that facility, pilots, and representatives of seamen's welfare and labor organizations to board and depart the vessel through the facility in a timely manner at no cost to the individual."

Risk Assessment Tool

Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §111, Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1894, provided that: "In updating Area Maritime Security Plans required under section 70103(b)(2)(F) [now section 70103(b)(2)(G)] of title 46, United States Code, and in applying for grants under section 70107 of such title, the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall make available, and Area Maritime Security Committees may use a risk assessment tool that uses standardized risk criteria, such as the Maritime Security Risk Assessment Tool used by the Coast Guard."

Revision of Port Security Planning Guide

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §113, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2093, provided that: "The Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Maritime Administration and after consultation with the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee and the Coast Guard, shall publish a revised version of the document entitled 'Port Security: A National Planning Guide', incorporating the requirements prescribed under chapter 701 of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this Act, within 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2002], and make that revised document available on the Internet."

§70104. Transportation security incident response

(a) Facility and Vessel Response Plans.—The Secretary shall—

(1) establish security incident response plans for vessels and facilities that may be involved in a transportation security incident; and

(2) make those plans available to the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency for inclusion in the Administrator's response plan for United States ports and waterways.

(b) Contents.—Response plans developed under subsection (a) shall provide a comprehensive response to an emergency, including notifying and coordinating with local, State, and Federal authorities, including the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, securing the facility or vessel, and evacuating facility and vessel personnel.

(c) Inclusion in Security Plan.—A response plan required under this subsection for a vessel or facility may be included in the security plan prepared under section 70103(c).

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2072; amended Pub. L. 109–295, title VI, §612(c), Oct. 4, 2006, 120 Stat. 1410.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency" and "Administrator's" substituted for "Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency" and "Director's", respectively, on authority of section 612(c) of Pub. L. 109–295, set out as a note under section 313 of Title 6, Domestic Security. Any reference to the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency in title VI of Pub. L. 109–295 or an amendment by title VI to be considered to refer and apply to the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency until Mar. 31, 2007, see section 612(f)(2) of Pub. L. 109–295, set out as a note under section 313 of Title 6.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of all functions, personnel, assets, components, authorities, grant programs, and liabilities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, including the functions of the Under Secretary for Federal Emergency Management relating thereto, to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, see section 315(a)(1) of Title 6, Domestic Security.

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, including the functions of the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see former section 313(1) and sections 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.

Deadline

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(c), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2084, provided that: "The Secretary shall establish the plans required under section 70104(a)(1) of title 46, United States Code, as enacted by this Act, before April 1, 2003."

§70105. Transportation worker identification credentials

(a) Prohibition.—(1) The Secretary shall prescribe regulations to prevent an individual from entering an area of a vessel or facility that is designated as a secure area by the Secretary for purposes of a security plan for the vessel or facility that is approved by the Secretary under section 70103 of this title unless the individual—

(A) holds a transportation worker identification credential issued under this section and is authorized to be in the area in accordance with the plan; or

(B) is accompanied by another individual who holds a transportation worker identification credential issued under this section and is authorized to be in the area in accordance with the plan.

(2) A person shall not admit an individual into such a secure area unless the entry of the individual into the area is in compliance with paragraph (1).

(b) Issuance of Credentials.—(1) The Secretary shall issue a biometric transportation worker identification credential to an individual specified in paragraph (2), unless the Secretary determines under subsection (c) that the individual poses a security risk warranting denial of the credential.

(2) This subsection applies to—

(A) an individual allowed unescorted access to a secure area designated in a vessel or facility security plan approved under section 70103 of this title;

(B) an individual issued a license, certificate of registry, or merchant mariners document under part E of subtitle II of this title allowed unescorted access to a secure area designated in a vessel security plan approved under section 70103 of this title;

(D) an individual engaged on a towing vessel that pushes, pulls, or hauls alongside a tank vessel allowed unescorted access to a secure area designated in a vessel security plan approved under section 70103 of this title;

(E) an individual with access to security sensitive information as determined by the Secretary;

(F) other individuals engaged in port security activities as determined by the Secretary;

(G) a member of the Armed Forces who—

(i) is undergoing separation, discharge, or release from the Armed Forces under honorable conditions;

(ii) applies for a transportation worker identification credential; and

(iii) is otherwise eligible for such a credential; and

(H) other individuals as determined appropriate by the Secretary including individuals employed at a port not otherwise covered by this subsection.

(3) The Secretary may extend for up to one year the expiration of a biometric transportation worker identification credential required by this section to align the expiration with the expiration of a license, certificate of registry, or merchant mariner document required under chapter 71 or 73.

(1) Disqualifications.—

(A) Permanent disqualifying criminal offenses.—Except as provided under paragraph (2), an individual is permanently disqualified from being issued a biometric transportation worker identification credential under subsection (b) if the individual has been convicted, or found not guilty by reason of insanity, in a civilian or military jurisdiction of any of the following felonies:

(i) Espionage or conspiracy to commit espionage.

(ii) Sedition or conspiracy to commit sedition.

(iii) Treason or conspiracy to commit treason.

(iv) A Federal crime of terrorism (as defined in section 2332b(g) of title 18), a crime under a comparable State law, or conspiracy to commit such crime.

(v) A crime involving a transportation security incident.

(vi) Improper transportation of a hazardous material in violation of section 5104(b) of title 49, or a comparable State law.

(vii) Unlawful possession, use, sale, distribution, manufacture, purchase, receipt, transfer, shipment, transportation, delivery, import, export, or storage of, or dealing in, an explosive or explosive device. In this clause, an explosive or explosive device includes—

(I) an explosive (as defined in sections 232(5) and 844(j) of title 18);

(II) explosive materials (as defined in subsections (c) through (f) of section 841 of title 18); and

(III) a destructive device (as defined in 921(a)(4) of title 18 or section 5845(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986).

(viii) Murder.

(ix) Making any threat, or maliciously conveying false information knowing the same to be false, concerning the deliverance, placement, or detonation of an explosive or other lethal device in or against a place of public use, a State or other government facility, a public transportation system, or an infrastructure facility.

(x) A violation of chapter 96 of title 18, popularly known as the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or a comparable State law, if one of the predicate acts found by a jury or admitted by the defendant consists of one of the crimes listed in this subparagraph.

(xi) Attempt to commit any of the crimes listed in clauses (i) through (iv).

(xii) Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of the crimes described in clauses (v) through (x).

(B) Interim disqualifying criminal offenses.—Except as provided under paragraph (2), an individual is disqualified from being issued a biometric transportation worker identification credential under subsection (b) if the individual has been convicted, or found not guilty by reason of insanity, during the 7-year period ending on the date on which the individual applies for such credential, or was released from incarceration during the 5-year period ending on the date on which the individual applies for such credential, of any of the following felonies:

(i) Unlawful possession, use, sale, manufacture, purchase, distribution, receipt, transfer, shipment, transportation, delivery, import, export, or storage of, or dealing in, a firearm or other weapon. In this clause, a firearm or other weapon includes—

(I) firearms (as defined in section 921(a)(3) of title 18 or section 5845(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986); and

(II) items contained on the U.S. Munitions Import List under section 447.21 of title 27, Code of Federal Regulations.

(ii) Extortion.

(iii) Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation, including identity fraud and money laundering if the money laundering is related to a crime described in this subparagraph or subparagraph (A). In this clause, welfare fraud and passing bad checks do not constitute dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.

(iv) Bribery.

(v) Smuggling.

(vi) Immigration violations.

(vii) Distribution of, possession with intent to distribute, or importation of a controlled substance.

(viii) Arson.

(ix) Kidnaping or hostage taking.

(x) Rape or aggravated sexual abuse.

(xi) Assault with intent to kill.

(xii) Robbery.

(xiii) Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of the crimes listed in this subparagraph.

(xiv) Fraudulent entry into a seaport in violation of section 1036 of title 18, or a comparable State law.

(xv) A violation of the chapter 96 of title 18 (popularly known as the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) or a comparable State law, other than any of the violations listed in subparagraph (A)(x).

(C) Under want, warrant, or indictment.—An applicant who is wanted, or under indictment, in any civilian or military jurisdiction for a felony listed in paragraph (1)(A), is disqualified from being issued a biometric transportation worker identification credential under subsection (b) until the want or warrant is released or the indictment is dismissed.

(D) Other potential disqualifications.—Except as provided under subparagraphs (A) through (C), an individual may not be denied a transportation worker identification credential under subsection (b) unless the Secretary determines that individual—

(i) has been convicted within the preceding 7-year period of a felony or found not guilty by reason of insanity of a felony—

(I) that the Secretary believes could cause the individual to be a terrorism security risk to the United States; or

(II) for causing a severe transportation security incident;

(ii) has been released from incarceration within the preceding 5-year period for committing a felony described in clause (i);

(iii) may be denied admission to the United States or removed from the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.); or

(iv) otherwise poses a terrorism security risk to the United States.

(E) Modification of listed offenses.—The Secretary may, by rulemaking, add to or modify the list of disqualifying crimes described in paragraph (1)(B).

(2) The Secretary shall prescribe regulations that establish a waiver process for issuing a transportation worker identification credential to an individual found to be otherwise ineligible for such a credential under subparagraph (A), (B), or (D) of paragraph (1). In deciding to issue a credential to such an individual, the Secretary shall—

(A) give consideration to the circumstances of any disqualifying act or offense, restitution made by the individual, Federal and State mitigation remedies, and other factors from which it may be concluded that the individual does not pose a terrorism risk warranting denial of the credential; and

(B) issue a waiver to an individual without regard to whether that individual would otherwise be disqualified if the individual's employer establishes alternate security arrangements acceptable to the Secretary.

(3) Denial of waiver review.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall establish a review process before an administrative law judge for individuals denied a waiver under paragraph (2).

(B) Scope of review.—In conducting a review under the process established pursuant to subparagraph (A), the administrative law judge shall be governed by the standards of section 706 of title 5. The substantial evidence standard in section 706(2)(E) of title 5 shall apply whether or not there has been an agency hearing. The judge shall review all facts on the record of the agency.

(C) Classified evidence.—The Secretary, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall issue regulations to establish procedures by which the Secretary, as part of a review conducted under this paragraph, may provide to the individual adversely affected by the determination an unclassified summary of classified evidence upon which the denial of a waiver by the Secretary was based.

(D) Review of classified evidence by administrative law judge.—

(i) Review.—As part of a review conducted under this section, if the decision of the Secretary was based on classified information (as defined in section 1(a) of the Classified Information Procedures Act (18 U.S.C. App.)), such information may be submitted by the Secretary to the reviewing administrative law judge, pursuant to appropriate security procedures, and shall be reviewed by the administrative law judge ex parte and in camera.

(ii) Security clearances.—Pursuant to existing procedures and requirements, the Secretary, in coordination (as necessary) with the heads of other affected departments or agencies, shall ensure that administrative law judges reviewing negative waiver decisions of the Secretary under this paragraph possess security clearances appropriate for such review.

(iii) Unclassified summaries of classified evidence.—As part of a review conducted under this paragraph and upon the request of the individual adversely affected by the decision of the Secretary not to grant a waiver, the Secretary shall provide to the individual and reviewing administrative law judge, consistent with the procedures established under clause (i), an unclassified summary of any classified information upon which the decision of the Secretary was based.

(E) New evidence.—The Secretary shall establish a process under which an individual may submit a new request for a waiver, notwithstanding confirmation by the administrative law judge of the Secretary's initial denial of the waiver, if the request is supported by substantial evidence that was not available to the Secretary at the time the initial waiver request was denied.

(4) The Secretary shall establish an appeals process under this section for individuals found to be ineligible for a transportation worker identification credential that includes notice and an opportunity for a hearing.

(5) Upon application, the Secretary may issue a transportation worker identification credential to an individual if the Secretary has previously determined, under section 5103a of title 49, that the individual does not pose a security risk.

(d) Background Records Check.—(1) On request of the Secretary, the Attorney General shall—

(A) conduct a background records check regarding the individual; and

(B) upon completing the background records check, notify the Secretary of the completion and results of the background records check.

(2) A background records check regarding an individual under this subsection shall consist of the following:

(A) A check of the relevant criminal history databases.

(B) In the case of an alien, a check of the relevant databases to determine the status of the alien under the immigration laws of the United States.

(D) Review of any other national security-related information or database identified by the Attorney General for purposes of such a background records check.

(e) Restrictions on Use and Maintenance of Information.—(1) Information obtained by the Attorney General or the Secretary under this section may not be made available to the public, including the individual's employer.

(2) Any information constituting grounds for denial of a transportation worker identification credential under this section shall be maintained confidentially by the Secretary and may be used only for making determinations under this section. The Secretary may share any such information with other Federal law enforcement agencies. An individual's employer may only be informed of whether or not the individual has been issued the credential under this section.

(f) Definition.—In this section, the term "alien" has the meaning given the term in section 101(a)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(3)).

(g) Applications for Merchant Mariners' Documents.—The Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall—

(1) develop and, no later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the Elijah E. Cummings Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2020, implement a joint application for merchant mariner's documents under chapter 73 and for a transportation worker identification credential issued under this section; and

(2) upon receipt of a joint application developed under paragraph (1) concurrently process an application from an individual for merchant mariner's documents under chapter 73 and an application from such individual for a transportation worker identification credential under this section.

(h) Fees.—The Secretary shall ensure that the fees charged each individual applying for a transportation worker identification credential under this section who has passed a background check under section 5103a(d) of title 49, United States Code, and who has a current hazardous materials endorsement in accordance with section 1572 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, and each individual with a current merchant mariners' document who has passed a criminal background check under section 7302(d)—

(1) are for costs associated with the issuance, production, and management of the transportation worker identification credential, as determined by the Secretary; and

(2) do not include costs associated with performing a background check for that individual, except for any incremental costs in the event that the scope of such background checks diverge.

(i) Priority Processing for Separating Service Members.—(1) The Secretary and the Secretary of Defense shall enter into a memorandum of understanding regarding the submission and processing of applications for transportation worker identification credentials under subsection (b)(2)(G).

(2) Not later than 30 days after the submission of such an application by an individual who is eligible to submit such an application, the Secretary shall process and approve or deny the application unless an appeal or waiver applies or further application documentation is necessary.

(j) Deployment of Transportation Worker Identification Credential Readers.—

(1) Pilot program.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall conduct a pilot program to test the business processes, technology, and operational impacts required to deploy transportation worker identification credential readers at secure areas of the marine transportation system.

(B) Geographic locations.—The pilot program shall take place at not fewer than 5 distinct geographic locations, to include vessels and facilities in a variety of environmental settings.

(C) Commencement.—The pilot program shall commence not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the SAFE Port Act.

(2) Correlation with worker identification credential.—

(A) In general.—The pilot program described in paragraph (1) shall be conducted concurrently with the issuance of the transportation worker identification credentials described in subsection (b) to ensure credential and credential reader interoperability.

(B) Fee.—An individual charged a fee for a transportation worker identification credential issued under this section may not be charged an additional fee if the Secretary determines different transportation worker identification credentials are needed based on the results of the pilot program described in paragraph (1) or for other reasons related to the technology requirements for the transportation worker identification credential program.

(3) Regulations.—Not later than 2 years after the commencement of the pilot program under paragraph (1)(C), the Secretary, after a notice and comment period that includes at least 1 public hearing, shall promulgate final regulations that require the deployment of transportation worker identification credential readers that are consistent with the findings of the pilot program and build upon the regulations prescribed under subsection (a).

(k) Limitation.—The Secretary may not require the placement of an electronic reader for transportation worker identification credentials on a vessel unless—

(1) the vessel has more individuals on the crew that are required to have a transportation worker identification credential than the number the Secretary determines, by regulation issued under subsection (j)(3), warrants such a reader; or

(2) the Secretary determines that the vessel is at risk of a severe transportation security incident.

(l) The Secretary may use a secondary authentication system to verify the identification of individuals using transportation worker identification credentials when the individual's fingerprints are not able to be taken or read.

(m) Escorting.—The Secretary shall coordinate with owners and operators subject to this section to allow any individual who has a pending application for a transportation worker identification credential under this section or is waiting for reissuance of such credential, including any individual whose credential has been lost or stolen, and who needs to perform work in a secure or restricted area to have access to such area for that purpose through escorting of such individual in accordance with subsection (a)(1)(B) by another individual who holds a transportation worker identification credential. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as requiring or compelling an owner or operator to provide escorted access.

(n) Processing Time.—The Secretary shall review an initial transportation worker identification credential application and respond to the applicant, as appropriate, including the mailing of an Initial Determination of Threat Assessment letter, within 30 days after receipt of the initial application. The Secretary shall, to the greatest extent practicable, review appeal and waiver requests submitted by a transportation worker identification credential applicant, and send a written decision or request for additional information required for the appeal or waiver determination, within 30 days after receipt of the applicant's appeal or waiver written request. For an applicant that is required to submit additional information for an appeal or waiver determination, the Secretary shall send a written decision, to the greatest extent practicable, within 30 days after receipt of all requested information.

(o) Receipt and Activation of Transportation Worker Identification Credential.—

(1) In general.—Not later than one year after the date of publication of final regulations required by subsection (j)(3) of this section the Secretary shall develop a plan to permit the receipt and activation of transportation worker identification credentials at any vessel or facility described in subsection (a) of this section that desires to implement this capability. Such receipt and activation shall comply, to the extent possible, with all appropriate requirements of Federal standards for personal identity verification and credential.

(2) Limitation.—The Secretary may not require any such vessel or facility to provide on-site receipt and activation of transportation worker identification credentials.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2073; amended Pub. L. 109–241, title III, §309, July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 528; Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §104(a), (b), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1888, 1890; Pub. L. 110–53, title XIII, §1309(a), Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 397; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §§809, 814, 818(a), 819, 823, title IX, §903(c)(2), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2995, 2999-3001, 3003, 3011; Pub. L. 111–330, §1(13), Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3570; Pub. L. 114–120, title III, §306(a)(9), Feb. 8, 2016, 130 Stat. 54; Pub. L. 114–328, div. C, title XXXV, §3509(a), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2780; Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXIII [LXXXIII], §8346, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4718; Pub. L. 117–263, div. K, title CXVIII, §11804(a), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 4163.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 5845 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsec. (c)(1)(A)(vii)(III), (B)(i)(I), is classified to section 5845 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.

The Immigration and Nationality Act, referred to in subsec. (c)(1)(D)(iii), is act June 27, 1952, ch. 477, 66 Stat. 163, which is classified principally to chapter 12 (§1101 et seq.) of Title 8, Aliens and Nationality. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1101 of Title 8 and Tables.

The Classified Information Procedures Act, referred to in subsec. (c)(3)(D)(i), is Pub. L. 96–456, Oct. 15, 1980, 94 Stat. 2025, which is set out in the Appendix to Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

The date of enactment of the Elijah E. Cummings Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2020, referred to in subsec. (g)(1), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 116–283 which was approved Jan. 1, 2021.

The date of the enactment of the SAFE Port Act, referred to in subsec. (j)(1)(C), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–347, which was approved Oct. 13, 2006.

Amendments

2022—Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(1), substituted "worker identification credentials" for "security cards" in section catchline.

Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(2)–(4), substituted "transportation worker identification credential" for "transportation security card", "transportation worker identification credentials" for "transportation security cards", and "credential" for "card" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(5), substituted "Credentials" for "Cards" in heading.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(6), substituted "Administrator of" for "Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(7), redesignated subsec. (j) as (i) and struck out former subsec. (i) which related to implementation schedule.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(9), substituted "Worker Identification Credential" for "Security Card", in subsec. heading, and "worker identification credential" for "security cards", in par. (2) heading.

Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(7), redesignated subsec. (k) as (j). Former subsec. (j) redesignated (i).

Subsec. (j)(4). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(11), which directed amendment of subsec. (k), as so redesignated, by striking par. (4), was executed to subsec. (j) to reflect the probable intent of Congress and amendment by Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), which redesignated subsec. (k) as (j). Prior to amendment, par. (4) related to report on the pilot program.

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (m) as (k). Former subsec. (k) redesignated (j).

Subsec. (k)(1). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(10), substituted "subsection (j)(3)" for "subsection (k)(3)".

Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (n) as (l) and struck out former subsec. (l). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of the SAFE Port Act, and every 6 months thereafter until the requirements under this section are fully implemented, the Secretary shall submit a report on progress being made in implementing such requirements to the appropriate congressional committees (as defined in section 2(1) of the SAFE Port Act)."

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (o) as (m). Former subsec. (m) redesignated (k).

Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (p) as (n). Former subsec. (n) redesignated (l).

Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(12)(A), substituted "Worker Identification Credential" for "Security Card" in the subsec. heading.

Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (q) as (o). Former subsec. (o) redesignated (m).

Subsec. (o)(1). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(12)(B), substituted "subsection (j)(3)" for "subsection (k)(3)" and "Such receipt and activation shall" for "This plan shall".

Subsec. (o)(2). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(12)(C), substituted "on-site receipt and activation of transportation worker identification credentials" for "on-site activation capability".

Subsec. (p). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (p) as (n).

Subsec. (q). Pub. L. 117–263, §11804(a)(8), redesignated subsec. (q) as (o).

2021—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 116–283 substituted "shall—" and pars. (1) and (2) for "shall concurrently process an application from an individual for merchant mariner's documents under chapter 73 of title 46, United States Code, and an application from that individual for a transportation security card under this section."

2016—Subsec. (b)(2)(G), (H). Pub. L. 114–328, §3509(a)(1), added subpar. (G) and redesignated former subpar. (G) as (H).

Subsec. (c)(1)(B)(xv). Pub. L. 114–120, §306(a)(9)(A), substituted "18 (popularly" for "18, popularly" and "Act)" for "Act".

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 114–120, §306(a)(9)(B), substituted "(D) of paragraph" for "(D) paragraph" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 114–328, §3509(a)(2), amended subsec. (j) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Not later than January 1, 2009, the Secretary shall process and issue or deny each application for a transportation security card under this section for individuals with current and valid merchant mariners' documents on the date of the enactment of the SAFE Port Act."

2010—Subsec. (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 111–281, §809(1), inserted "allowed unescorted access to a secure area designated in a vessel security plan approved under section 70103 of this title" after "subtitle II of this title".

Subsec. (b)(2)(D). Pub. L. 111–281, §809(2), inserted "allowed unescorted access to a secure area designated in a vessel security plan approved under section 70103 of this title" after "tank vessel".

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 111–281, §819, as amended by Pub. L. 111–330, added par. (3).

Subsec. (c)(3)(C). Pub. L. 111–281, §903(c)(2), substituted "Director of National Intelligence" for "National Intelligence Director".

Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 111–281, §814, added subsec. (n).

Subsecs. (o), (p). Pub. L. 111–281, §818(a), added subsecs. (o) and (p).

Subsec. (q). Pub. L. 111–281, §823, added subsec. (q).

2007—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 110–53, §1309(a)(1), substituted "determines under subsection (c) that the individual poses a security risk" for "decides that the individual poses a security risk under subsection (c)".

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 110–53, §1309(a)(2), inserted heading and amended text of par. (1) generally, substituting provisions relating to disqualifications, consisting of subpars. (A) to (E), for former provisions relating to when individuals may be denied transportation security cards, consisting of subpars. (A) to (D).

2006—Subsec. (b)(2)(G). Pub. L. 109–347, §104(b)(1), added subpar. (G).

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 109–347, §104(b)(2), inserted "subparagraph (A), (B), or (D)" before "paragraph (1)".

Subsec. (c)(3) to (5). Pub. L. 109–241 added par. (3) and redesignated former pars. (3) and (4) as (4) and (5), respectively.

Subsecs. (g) to (m). Pub. L. 109–347, §104(a), added subsecs. (g) to (m).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2016 Amendment

Pub. L. 114–328, div. C, title XXXV, §3509(c), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2781, provided that: "Section 70105(j)(2) of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this section, shall apply to applications for transportation security cards submitted after the expiration of the 180-day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2016]."

Effective Date of 2010 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–330, §1, Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3569, provided that the amendment made by section 1(13) is effective with the enactment of Pub. L. 111–281.

Transportation Worker Identification Credential Reader Requirements Rule Implementation

Pub. L. 117–263, div. K, title CXVIII, §11804(c), (d), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 4164, provided that:

"(c) Limitation on Implementation.—The Secretary may not implement the rule entitled 'Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)–Reader Requirements' (81 Fed. Reg. 57651) for covered facilities before May 8, 2026.

"(d) Covered Facilities Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered facilities' means—

"(1) facilities that handle Certain Dangerous Cargoes in bulk and transfer such cargoes from or to a vessel;

"(2) facilities that handle Certain Dangerous Cargoes in bulk, but do not transfer it from or to a vessel; and

"(3) facilities that receive vessels carrying Certain Dangerous Cargoes in bulk but, during the vessel-to-facility interface, do not transfer it from or to the vessel."

[For definition of "Secretary" as used in section 11804(c) of Pub. L. 117–263, set out above, see section 11002 of Pub. L. 117–263, set out as a note under section 106 of Title 14, Coast Guard.]

Deadline for Section 70105 Regulations

Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §104(c), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1891, provided that: "Not later than January 1, 2007, the Secretary [of Homeland Security] shall promulgate final regulations implementing the requirements for issuing transportation security cards under section 70105 of title 46, United States Code. The regulations shall include a background check process to enable newly hired workers to begin working unless the Secretary makes an initial determination that the worker poses a security risk. Such process shall include a check against the consolidated and integrated terrorist watch list maintained by the Federal Government."

Transportation Worker Identification Credentials

Pub. L. 117–146, §23, June 16, 2022, 136 Stat. 1284, provided that:

"(a) Definition of Direct Assistance to a United States Port.—In this section:

"(1) In general.—The term 'direct assistance to a United States port' means the transportation of cargo directly to or from a United States port.

"(2) Exclusions.—The term 'direct assistance to a United States port' does not include—

"(A) the transportation of a mixed load of cargo that includes—

"(i) cargo that does not originate from a United States port; or

"(ii) a container or cargo that is not bound for a United States port;

"(B) any period during which a motor carrier or driver is operating in interstate commerce to transport cargo or provide services not in support of transportation to or from a United States port; or

"(C) the period after a motor carrier dispatches the applicable driver or commercial motor vehicle of the motor carrier to another location to begin operation in interstate commerce in a manner that is not in support of transportation to or from a United States port.

"(b) Transportation Worker Identification Credentials.—The Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall jointly prioritize and expedite the consideration of applications for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential with respect to applicants that reasonably demonstrate that the purpose of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential is for providing, within the interior of the United States, direct assistance to a United States port."

Deadline for Memorandum

Pub. L. 114–328, div. C, title XXXV, §3509(b), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2781, provided that: "The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating and the Secretary of Defense shall enter into the memorandum of understanding required by the amendment made by subsection (a)(2) by not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2016]."

Transportation Worker Identification Credential Security Card Program Improvements and Assessment

Pub. L. 114–278, §1, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1410, provided that:

"(a) Credential Improvements.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 16, 2016], the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration shall commence actions, consistent with section 70105 of title 46, United States Code, to improve the Transportation Security Administration's process for vetting individuals with access to secure areas of vessels and maritime facilities.

"(2) Required actions.—The actions described under paragraph (1) shall include—

"(A) conducting a comprehensive risk analysis of security threat assessment procedures, including—

"(i) identifying those procedures that need additional internal controls; and

"(ii) identifying best practices for quality assurance at every stage of the security threat assessment;

"(B) implementing the additional internal controls and best practices identified under subparagraph (A);

"(C) improving fraud detection techniques, such as—

"(i) by establishing benchmarks and a process for electronic document validation;

"(ii) by requiring annual training for Trusted Agents; and

"(iii) by reviewing any security threat assessment-related information provided by Trusted Agents and incorporating any new threat information into updated guidance under subparagraph (D);

"(D) updating the guidance provided to Trusted Agents regarding the vetting process and related regulations;

"(E) finalizing a manual for Trusted Agents and adjudicators on the vetting process; and

"(F) establishing quality controls to ensure consistent procedures to review adjudication decisions and terrorism vetting decisions.

"(3) Report.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security shall submit a report to Congress that evaluates the implementation of the actions described in paragraph (1).

"(b) Comprehensive Security Assessment of the Transportation Security Card Program.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 16, 2016], the Secretary of Homeland Security shall commission an assessment of the effectiveness of the transportation security card program (referred to in this section as 'Program') required under section 70105 of title 46, United States Code, at enhancing security and reducing security risks for facilities and vessels regulated under chapter 701 of that title.

"(2) Location.—The assessment commissioned under paragraph (1) shall be conducted by a research organization with significant experience in port or maritime security, such as—

"(A) a national laboratory;

"(B) a university-based center within the Science and Technology Directorate's centers of excellence network; or

"(C) a qualified Federally-funded research and development center.

"(3) Contents.—The assessment commissioned under paragraph (1) shall—

"(A) review the credentialing process by determining—

"(i) the appropriateness of vetting standards;

"(ii) whether the fee structure adequately reflects the current costs of vetting;

"(iii) whether there is unnecessary redundancy or duplication with other Federal- or State-issued transportation security credentials; and

"(iv) the appropriateness of having varied Federal and State threat assessments and access controls;

"(B) review the process for renewing applications for Transportation Worker Identification Credentials, including the number of days it takes to review application, appeal, and waiver requests for additional information; and

"(C) review the security value of the Program by—

"(i) evaluating the extent to which the Program, as implemented, addresses known or likely security risks in the maritime and port environments;

"(ii) evaluating the potential for a non-biometric credential alternative;

"(iii) identifying the technology, business process, and operational impacts of the use of the transportation security card and transportation security card readers in the maritime and port environments;

"(iv) assessing the costs and benefits of the Program, as implemented; and

"(v) evaluating the extent to which the Secretary of Homeland Security has addressed the deficiencies in the Program identified by the Government Accountability Office and the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security before the date of enactment of this Act.

"(4) Deadlines.—The assessment commissioned under paragraph (1) shall be completed not later than 1 year after the date on which the assessment is commissioned.

"(5) Submission to congress.—Not later than 60 days after the date that the assessment is completed, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives the results of the assessment commissioned under this subsection.

"(c) Corrective Action Plan; Program Reforms.—If the assessment commissioned under subsection (b) identifies a deficiency in the effectiveness of the Program, the Secretary of Homeland Security, not later than 60 days after the date on which the assessment is completed, shall submit a corrective action plan to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate, the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives that—

"(1) responds to findings of the assessment;

"(2) includes an implementation plan with benchmarks;

"(3) may include programmatic reforms, revisions to regulations, or proposals for legislation; and

"(4) shall be considered in any rulemaking by the Department of Homeland Security relating to the Program.

"(d) Inspector General Review.—If a corrective action plan is submitted under subsection (c), the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security shall—

"(1) not later than 120 days after the date of such submission, review the extent to which such plan implements the requirements under subsection (c); and

"(2) not later than 18 months after the date of such submission, and annually thereafter for 3 years, submit a report to the congressional committees set forth in subsection (c) that describes the progress of the implementation of such plan."

Transportation Worker Identification Credential Process Reform

Pub. L. 112–213, title VII, §709, Dec. 20, 2012, 126 Stat. 1581, provided that: "Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2012], the Secretary of Homeland Security shall reform the process for Transportation Worker Identification Credential enrollment, activation, issuance, and renewal to require, in total, not more than one in-person visit to a designated enrollment center except in cases in which there are extenuating circumstances, as determined by the Secretary, requiring more than one such in-person visit."

Pilot Program for Fingerprinting of Maritime Workers

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §808, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2994, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 15, 2010], the Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish procedures providing for an individual who is required to be fingerprinted for purposes of obtaining a transportation security card under section 70105 of title 46, United States Code, the ability to be fingerprinted at any of not less than 20 facilities operated by or under contract with an agency of the Department of Homeland Security that fingerprints the public for the Department. These facilities shall be in addition to facilities established under section 70105 of title 46, United States Code.

"(b) Expiration.—The requirement made by subsection (a) expires 1 year after the date the Secretary establishes the facilities required under that subsection."

Assessment of Transportation Security Card Enrollment Sites

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §815, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2999, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 15, 2010], the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall prepare an assessment of the enrollment sites for transportation security cards issued under section 70105 of title 46, United States Code, including—

"(1) the feasibility of keeping those enrollment sites open after the date of enactment of this Act; and

"(2) the quality of customer service, including the periods of time individuals are kept on hold on the telephone, whether appointments are kept, and processing times for applications.

"(b) Timelines and Benchmarks.—The Secretary shall develop timelines and benchmarks for implementing the findings of the assessment as the Secretary deems necessary."

Receipt of Cards

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §818(b), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3000, provided that:

"(1) Report by comptroller general.—Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 15, 2010], the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report assessing the costs, technical feasibility, and security measures associated with implementing procedures to deliver a transportation security card to an approved applicant's place of residence in a secure manner or to allow an approved applicant to receive the card at an enrollment center of the individual's choosing.

"(2) Process for alternative means of receipt.—If the Comptroller General finds in the final report under paragraph (1) that it is feasible for a transportation security card to be sent to an approved applicant's place of residence in a secure manner, the Secretary shall, within 1 year after the date of issuance of the final report by the Comptroller General, implement a secure process to permit an individual approved for a transportation security card to receive the card at the applicant's place of residence or at the enrollment center of the individual's choosing. The individual shall be responsible for any additional cost associated with the secure delivery of a transportation security card."

Prohibition of Issuance of Transportation Security Cards to Persons Convicted of Certain Felonies

Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §106, Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1891, provided that: "The Secretary [of Homeland Security], in issuing a final rule pursuant to section 70105 of title 46, United States Code, shall provide for the disqualification of individuals who have been found guilty or have been found not guilty by reason of insanity of a felony, involving—

"(1) treason, or conspiracy to commit treason;

"(2) espionage, or conspiracy to commit espionage;

"(3) sedition, or conspiracy to commit sedition; or

"(4) a crime listed in chapter 113B of title 18, United States Code, a comparable State law, or conspiracy to commit such crime."

§70106. Deployable, specialized forces

(a) Establishment.—

(1) In general.—To enhance the domestic maritime security capability of the United States, the Secretary shall establish deployable specialized forces of varying capabilities as are needed to safeguard the public and protect vessels, harbors, ports, facilities, and cargo in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States from destruction, loss or injury from crime, or sabotage due to terrorist activity, and to respond to such activity in accordance with the transportation security plans developed under section 70103.

(2) Enhanced teams.—Such specialized forces shall include no less than two enhanced teams to serve as deployable forces capable of combating terrorism, engaging in interdiction, law enforcement, and advanced tactical maritime security operations to address known or potentially armed security threats (including non-compliant actors at sea), and participating in homeland security, homeland defense, and counterterrorism exercises in the maritime environment.

(b) Mission.—The combined force of the specialized forces established under subsection (a) shall be trained, equipped, and capable of being deployed to—

(1) deter, protect against, and rapidly respond to threats of maritime terrorism;

(2) conduct maritime operations to protect against and disrupt illegal use, access to, or proliferation of weapons of mass destruction;

(3) enforce moving or fixed safety or security zones established pursuant to law;

(4) conduct high speed intercepts;

(5) board, search, and seize any article or thing on or at, respectively, a vessel or facility found to present a risk to the vessel or facility, or to a port;

(6) rapidly deploy to supplement United States armed forces domestically or overseas;

(7) respond to criminal or terrorist acts so as to minimize, insofar as possible, the disruption caused by such acts;

(8) assist with facility vulnerability assessments required under this chapter; and

(9) carry out any other missions of the Coast Guard as are assigned to it by the Secretary.

(c) Minimization of Response Times.—The enhanced teams established under subsection (a)(2) shall, to the extent practicable, be stationed in such a way so as to minimize the response time to maritime terrorist threats and potential or actual transportation security incidents.

(d) Coordination With Other Agencies.—To the maximum extent feasible, the combined force of the specialized forces established under subsection (a) shall coordinate their activities with other Federal, State, and local law enforcement and emergency response agencies.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2074; amended Pub. L. 109–241, title III, §305, July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 528; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §804(a), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2990.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2010—Pub. L. 111–281 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section related to maritime safety and security teams.

2006—Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 109–241 substituted "any other missions of the Coast Guard" for "other security missions".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Coast Guard Detection Canine Team Program Expansion

Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §805, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2991, provided that:

"(a) Definitions.—For purposes of this section:

"(1) Canine detection team.—The term 'detection canine team' means a canine and a canine handler that are trained to detect narcotics or explosives, or other threats as defined by the Secretary.

"(2) Secretary.—The term 'Secretary' means the Secretary of Homeland Security.

"(b) Detection Canine Teams.—

"(1) Increased capacity.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 15, 2010], and subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary shall—

"(A) begin to increase the number of detection canine teams certified by the Coast Guard for the purposes of maritime-related security by no fewer than 10 canine teams annually through fiscal year 2012; and

"(B) encourage owners and operators of port facilities, passenger cruise liners, oceangoing cargo vessels, and other vessels identified by the Secretary to strengthen security through the use of highly trained detection canine teams.

"(2) Canine procurement.—The Secretary, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall procure detection canine teams as efficiently as possible, including, to the greatest extent possible, through increased domestic breeding, while meeting the performance needs and criteria established by the Commandant.

"(c) Deployment.—The Secretary shall prioritize deployment of the additional canine teams to ports based on risk, consistent with the Security and Accountability For Every Port Act of 2006 (Public Law 109–347) [see Tables for classification]."

§70107. Grants

(a) In General.—The Secretary shall establish a grant program for the allocation of funds based on risk to implement Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans among port authorities, facility operators, and State and local government agencies required to provide port security services and to train public safety personnel under section 70132 of this title. Before awarding a grant under the program, the Secretary shall provide for review and comment by the appropriate Federal Maritime Security Coordinators and the Maritime Administrator. In administering the grant program, the Secretary shall take into account national economic, energy, and strategic defense concerns based upon the most current risk assessments available.

(b) Eligible Costs.—The following costs of funding the correction of Coast Guard identified vulnerabilities in port security and ensuring compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans are eligible to be funded:

(1) Salary, benefits, overtime compensation, retirement contributions, and other costs of additional Coast Guard mandated security personnel.

(2) The cost of acquisition, operation, and maintenance of security equipment or facilities to be used for security monitoring and recording, security gates and fencing, marine barriers for designated security zones, security-related lighting systems, remote surveillance, concealed video systems, security vessels, and other security-related infrastructure or equipment that contributes to the overall security of passengers, cargo, or crewmembers. Grants awarded under this section may not be used to construct buildings or other physical facilities, except those which are constructed under terms and conditions consistent with the requirements under section 611(j)(8) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5196(j)(8)), including those facilities in support of this paragraph, and specifically approved by the Secretary. Costs eligible for funding under this paragraph may not exceed the greater of—

(A) $1,000,000 per project; or

(B) such greater amount as may be approved by the Secretary, which may not exceed 10 percent of the total amount of the grant.

(3) The cost of screening equipment, including equipment that detects weapons of mass destruction and conventional explosives, and of testing and evaluating such equipment, to certify secure systems of transportation.

(4) The cost of conducting vulnerability assessments to evaluate and make recommendations with respect to security.

(5) The cost of conducting exercises or training for prevention and detection of, preparedness for, response to, or recovery from terrorist attacks.

(6) The cost of establishing or enhancing mechanisms for sharing terrorism threat information and ensuring that the mechanisms are interoperable with Federal, State, and local agencies.

(7) The cost of equipment (including software) required to receive, transmit, handle, and store classified information.

(8) The cost of training public safety personnel—

(A) to enforce a security zone under section 70132 of this title; or

(B) assist in the enforcement of a security zone.

(1) 75-percent federal funding.—Except as provided in paragraph (2), Federal funds for any eligible project under this section shall not exceed 75 percent of the total cost of such project.

(2) Exceptions.—

(A) Small projects.—There are no matching requirements for grants under subsection (a) for projects costing not more than $25,000.

(B) Higher level of support required.—If the Secretary determines that a proposed project merits support and cannot be undertaken without a higher rate of Federal support, then the Secretary may approve grants under this section with a matching requirement other than that specified in paragraph (1).

(C) Training.—There are no matching requirements for grants under subsection (a) to train public safety personnel in the enforcement of security zones under section 70132 of this title or in assisting in the enforcement of such security zones.

(d) Coordination and Cooperation Agreements.—The Secretary shall ensure that projects paid for, or the costs of which are reimbursed, under this section within any area or port are coordinated with other projects, and may require cooperative agreements among users of the port and port facilities with respect to projects funded under this section.

(e) Multiple-Year Projects.—

(1) Letters of intent.—The Secretary may execute letters of intent to commit funding to such authorities, operators, and agencies.

(2) Limitation.—Not more than 20 percent of the grant funds awarded under this subsection in any fiscal year may be awarded for projects that span multiple years.

(f) Consistency With Plans.—The Secretary shall ensure that each grant awarded under subsection (e)—

(1) is used to supplement and support, in a consistent and coordinated manner, the applicable Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan; and

(2) is coordinated with any applicable State or Urban Area Homeland Security Plan.

(g) Applications.—Any entity subject to an Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan may submit an application for a grant under this section, at such time, in such form, and containing such information and assurances as the Secretary may require.

(h) Reports.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the SAFE Port Act, the Secretary, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall submit a report to Congress, in a secure format, describing the methodology used to allocate port security grant funds on the basis of risk.

(i) Administration.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary shall require eligible port authorities, facility operators, and State and local agencies required to provide security services, to submit an application, at such time, in such form, and containing such information and assurances as the Secretary may require, and shall include appropriate application, review, and delivery mechanisms.

(2) Minimum standards for payment or reimbursement.—Each application for payment or reimbursement of eligible costs shall include, at a minimum, the following:

(A) A copy of the applicable Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan or facility security plan.

(B) A comprehensive description of the need for the project, and a statement of the project's relationship to the applicable Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan or facility security plan.

(C) A determination by the Captain of the Port that the security project addresses or corrects Coast Guard identified vulnerabilities in security and ensures compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans.

(3) Procedural safeguards.—The Secretary shall by regulation establish appropriate accounting, reporting, and review procedures to ensure that amounts paid or reimbursed under this section are used for the purposes for which they were made available, all expenditures are properly accounted for, and amounts not used for such purposes and amounts not obligated or expended are recovered.

(4) Project approval required.—The Secretary may approve an application for the payment or reimbursement of costs under this section only if the Secretary is satisfied that—

(A) the project is consistent with Coast Guard vulnerability assessments and ensures compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans;

(B) enough money is available to pay the project costs that will not be reimbursed by the United States Government under this section;

(D) the recipient has authority to carry out the project as proposed.

(j) Audits and Examinations.—A recipient of amounts made available under this section shall keep such records as the Secretary may require, and make them available for review and audit by the Secretary, the Comptroller General of the United States, or the Inspector General of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating.

(k) Reports on Security Funding and Compliance.—

(1) Initial report.—Within 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit an unclassified report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, that—

(A) includes a funding proposal and rationale to fund the correction of Coast Guard identified vulnerabilities in port security and to help ensure compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans for fiscal years 2003 through 2008; and

(B) includes projected funding proposals for fiscal years 2003 through 2008 for the following security programs:

(i) The Sea Marshall program.

(ii) The Automated Identification System and a system of polling vessels on entry into United States waters.

(iii) The maritime intelligence requirements in this Act.

(iv) The issuance of transportation security cards required by section 70105.

(v) The program of certifying secure systems of transportation.

(2) Other expenditures.—The Secretary shall, as part of the report required by paragraph (1) report, in coordination with the Commissioner of Customs, on projected expenditures of screening and detection equipment and on cargo security programs over fiscal years 2003 through 2008.

(3) Annual reports.—Annually, beginning 1 year after transmittal of the report required by paragraph (1) until October 1, 2009, the Secretary shall transmit an unclassified annual report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, on progress in achieving compliance with the correction of Coast Guard identified vulnerabilities in port security and compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans that—

(A) identifies any modifications necessary in funding to ensure the correction of Coast Guard identified vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans;

(B) includes an assessment of progress in implementing the grant program established by subsection (a);

(D) with respect to a port selected by the Secretary, describes progress and enhancements of applicable Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans and how the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 has improved security at that port.

(l) Authorization of Appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated $400,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2007 through 2013 to carry out this section.

(m) Investigations.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary shall conduct investigations, fund pilot programs, and award grants, to examine or develop—

(A) methods or programs to increase the ability to target for inspection vessels, cargo, crewmembers, or passengers that will arrive or have arrived at any port or place in the United States;

(B) equipment to detect accurately explosives, chemical, or biological agents that could be used in a transportation security incident against the United States;

(C) equipment to detect accurately nuclear or radiological materials, including scintillation-based detection equipment capable of signalling the presence of nuclear or radiological materials;

(D) improved tags and seals designed for use on shipping containers to track the transportation of the merchandise in such containers, including sensors that are able to track a container throughout its entire supply chain, detect hazardous and radioactive materials within that container, and transmit that information to the appropriate law enforcement authorities;

(E) tools, including the use of satellite tracking systems, to increase the awareness of maritime areas and to identify potential transportation security incidents that could have an impact on facilities, vessels, and infrastructure on or adjacent to navigable waterways, including underwater access;

(F) tools to mitigate the consequences of a transportation security incident on, adjacent to, or under navigable waters of the United States, including sensor equipment, and other tools to help coordinate effective response to a transportation security incident;

(G) applications to apply existing technologies from other areas or industries to increase overall port security;

(H) improved container design, including blast-resistant containers; and

(I) methods to improve security and sustainability of port facilities in the event of a maritime transportation security incident, including specialized inspection facilities.

(2) Implementation of technology.—

(A) In general.—In conjunction with ongoing efforts to improve security at United States ports, the Secretary may conduct pilot projects at United States ports to test the effectiveness and applicability of new port security projects, including—

(i) testing of new detection and screening technologies;

(ii) projects to protect United States ports and infrastructure on or adjacent to the navigable waters of the United States, including underwater access; and

(iii) tools for responding to a transportation security incident at United States ports and infrastructure on or adjacent to the navigable waters of the United States, including underwater access.

(B) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $35,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 to carry out this subsection.

(3) National port security centers.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary may make grants or enter into cooperative agreements with eligible nonprofit institutions of higher learning to conduct investigations in collaboration with ports and the maritime transportation industry focused on enhancing security of the Nation's ports in accordance with this subsection through National Port Security Centers.

(B) Applications.—To be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph, a nonprofit institution of higher learning, or a consortium of such institutions, shall submit an application to the Secretary in such form and containing such information as the Secretary may require.

(C) Competitive selection process.—The Secretary shall select grant recipients under this paragraph through a competitive process on the basis of the following criteria:

(i) Whether the applicant can demonstrate that personnel, laboratory, and organizational resources will be available to the applicant to carry out the investigations authorized in this paragraph.

(ii) The applicant's capability to provide leadership in making national and regional contributions to the solution of immediate and long-range port and maritime transportation security and risk mitigation problems.

(iii) Whether the applicant can demonstrate that the applicant has an established, nationally recognized program in disciplines that contribute directly to maritime transportation safety and education.

(iv) Whether the applicant's investigations will involve major United States ports on the East Coast, the Gulf Coast, and the West Coast, and Federal agencies and other entities with expertise in port and maritime transportation.

(v) Whether the applicant has a strategic plan for carrying out the proposed investigations under the grant.

(4) Administrative provisions.—

(A) No duplication of effort.—Before making any grant, the Secretary shall coordinate with other Federal agencies to ensure the grant will not duplicate work already being conducted with Federal funding.

(B) Accounting.—The Secretary shall by regulation establish accounting, reporting, and review procedures to ensure that funds made available under paragraph (1) are used for the purpose for which they were made available, that all expenditures are properly accounted for, and that amounts not used for such purposes and amounts not expended are recovered.

(C) Recordkeeping.—Recipients of grants shall keep all records related to expenditures and obligations of funds provided under paragraph (1) and make them available upon request to the Inspector General of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating and the Secretary for audit and examination.

(5) Annual review and report.—The Inspector General of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall annually review the programs established under this subsection to ensure that the expenditures and obligations of funds are consistent with the purposes for which they are provided, and report the findings to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2075; amended Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §§804(a), (b), 808(a), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1081, 1083; Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §112, Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1894; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §828(b), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3007; Pub. L. 114–120, title III, §306(a)(10), Feb. 8, 2016, 130 Stat. 54; Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXIII [LXXXIII], §8314(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4699.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of the SAFE Port Act, referred to in subsec. (h), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–347, which was approved Oct. 13, 2006.

The date of enactment of this Act, referred to in subsec. (k)(1), probably means the date of enactment of Pub. L. 107–295, which enacted this section and was approved Nov. 25, 2002.

This Act, referred to in subsec. (k)(1)(B)(iii), probably means the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, which enacted this subtitle, see note below.

With respect to "transportation security cards required by section 70105", referred to in subsec. (k)(1)(B)(iv), amendments made by Pub. L. 117–263 to section 70105 of this title are such that section 70105 now refers to "transportation worker identification credential" rather than "transportation security card". See section 70105 of this title.

The Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, referred to in subsec. (k)(3)(D), is Pub. L. 107–295, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2064. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Tables.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–283, §8314(1)(A), substituted "public safety personnel" for "law enforcement personnel".

Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 116–283, §8314(1)(B), substituted "public safety personnel—" for "law enforcement personnel—" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (c)(2)(C). Pub. L. 116–283, §8314(1)(C), substituted "public safety personnel" for "law enforcement agency personnel".

2016—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 114–120, §306(a)(10)(A), substituted "5196(j)(8))," for "5121(j)(8))," in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (m)(3)(C)(iii). Pub. L. 114–120, §306(a)(10)(B), substituted "that the applicant" for "that is".

2010—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 111–281, §828(b)(1), substituted "services and to train law enforcement personnel under section 70132 of this title." for "services." in first sentence.

Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 111–281, §828(b)(2), added par.(8).

Subsec. (c)(2)(C). Pub. L. 111–281, §828(b)(3), added subpar. (C).

Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 111–281, §828(b)(4), substituted "2013" for "2011".

2006—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(a), (e), substituted "for the allocation of funds based on risk" for "for making a fair and equitable allocation of funds" and "national economic, energy, and strategic defense concerns based upon the most current risk assessments available" for "national economic and strategic defense concerns".

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(b)(1), inserted at end "Grants awarded under this section may not be used to construct buildings or other physical facilities, except those which are constructed under terms and conditions consistent with the requirements under section 611(j)(8) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121(j)(8)), including those facilities in support of this paragraph, and specifically approved by the Secretary. Costs eligible for funding under this paragraph may not exceed the greater of—" and subpars. (A) and (B).

Subsec. (b)(5) to (7). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(b)(2), added pars. (5) to (7).

Subsecs. (e) to (i). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(c)(1), added subsecs. (e) to (h). Former subsecs. (e) to (i) redesignated (i) to (m), respectively.

Subsec. (i)(1). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(c)(2), substituted "Secretary shall require" for "program shall require".

Subsecs. (j), (k). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(c)(1), redesignated subsecs. (f) and (g) as (j) and (k), respectively.

Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(d), amended subsec. (l) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (l) read as follows: "There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for each of fiscal years 2003 through 2008 such sums as are necessary to carry out subsections (a) through (g)."

Pub. L. 109–347, §112(c)(1), redesignated subsec. (h) as (l).

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 109–347, §112(c)(1), redesignated subsec. (i) as (m).

2004—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–293, §804(a), reenacted heading without change and amended text of subsec. (a) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Maritime Administrator, shall establish a grant program for making a fair and equitable allocation among port authorities, facility operators, and State and local agencies required to provide security services of funds to implement Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans and facility security plans. The program shall take into account national economic and strategic defense considerations."

Subsec. (c)(2)(B). Pub. L. 108–293, §804(b)(1), substituted "Secretary determines" for "Secretary of Transportation determines".

Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 108–293, §804(b)(1), substituted "Secretary" for "Secretary of Transportation" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 108–293, §804(b), substituted "Secretary" for "Secretary of Transportation" in two places and "department in which the Coast Guard is operating" for "Department of Transportation".

Subsecs. (g), (h). Pub. L. 108–293, §804(b)(1), substituted "Secretary" for "Secretary of Transportation" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 108–293, §808(a), added subsec. (i) and struck out former subsec. (i) which related to research and development grants for port security.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §804(c), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1081, provided that: "Subsections (a) and (b) [amending this section]—

"(1) shall take effect October 1, 2004; and

"(2) shall not affect any grant made before that date."

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury, including functions of the Secretary of the Treasury relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(1), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6. For establishment of U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the Department of Homeland Security, treated as if included in Pub. L. 107–296 as of Nov. 25, 2002, see section 211 of Title 6, as amended generally by Pub. L. 114–125, and section 802(b) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6.

[§70107A. Repealed. Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1809(a)(1), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3537]

Section, added Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §108(a), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1892; amended Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §§803, 824, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2990, 3003, related to interagency operational centers for port security.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Savings Clause

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1809(a)(2), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3537, provided that: "A repeal made by this subsection [repealing this section] shall not affect an interagency operational center established before the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018]."

Notice to Congress

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1809(a)(3), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3537, provided that: "The Secretary of Homeland Security shall notify the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives at least 1 year before ceasing operations of any interagency operational center established before the date of enactment of the Security and Accountability for Every Port Act of 2006 (Public Law 109–347; 120 Stat. 1884) [Oct. 13, 2006]."

Report Requirement

Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §108(b), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1893, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1809(c)(2), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3538, related to continued compliance with requirements of section 807 of Pub. L. 108–293 (118 Stat. 1082). Amendment by Pub. L. 115–254 substituted "[Reserved]." for text of subsec. (b).

§70108. Foreign port assessment

(a) In General.—The Secretary shall assess the effectiveness of the antiterrorism measures maintained at—

(1) a foreign port—

(A) served by vessels documented under chapter 121 of this title; or

(B) from which foreign vessels depart on a voyage to the United States; and

(2) any other foreign port the Secretary believes poses a security risk to international maritime commerce.

(b) Procedures.—In conducting an assessment under subsection (a), the Secretary shall assess the effectiveness of—

(1) screening of containerized and other cargo and baggage;

(2) security measures to restrict access to cargo, vessels, and dockside property to authorized personnel only;

(3) additional security on board vessels;

(4) licensing or certification of compliance with appropriate security standards;

(5) the security management program of the foreign port; and

(6) other appropriate measures to deter terrorism against the United States.

(1) the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State—

(A) on the terrorist threat that exists in each country involved; and

(B) to identify foreign ports that pose a high risk of introducing terrorism to international maritime commerce;

(2) appropriate authorities of foreign governments; and

(3) operators of vessels.

(d) Periodic Reassessment.—The Secretary, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall reassess the effectiveness of antiterrorism measures maintained at ports as described under subsection (a) and of procedures described in subsection (b) not less than once every 3 years.

(e) Limitation on Statutory Construction.—The absence of an inspection of a foreign port shall not bar the Secretary from making a finding that a port in a foreign country does not maintain effective antiterrorism measures.

(f) Recognition of Assessment Conducted by Other Entities.—

(1) Certification and treatment of assessments.—For the purposes of this section and section 70109, the Secretary may treat an assessment that a foreign government (including, for the purposes of this subsection, an entity of or operating under the auspices of the European Union) or international organization has conducted as an assessment that the Secretary has conducted for the purposes of subsection (a), if—

(A) the Secretary certifies that the foreign government or international organization—

(i) has conducted the assessment in accordance with subsection (b); and

(ii) has provided the Secretary with sufficient information pertaining to its assessment (including information regarding the outcome of the assessment); and

(B) the foreign government that conducted the assessment is not a state sponsor of terrorism (as defined in section 3316(h)).

(2) Authorization to enter into an agreement.—For the purposes of this section and section 70109, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State, may enter into an agreement with a foreign government (including, for the purposes of this subsection, an entity of or operating under the auspices of the European Union) or international organization, under which parties to the agreement—

(A) conduct an assessment, required under subsection (a);

(B) share information pertaining to such assessment (including, but not limited to, information on the outcome of the assessment); or

(3) Limitations.—Nothing in this section may be construed—

(A) to require the Secretary to treat an assessment conducted by a foreign government or an international organization as an assessment that satisfies the requirement under subsection (a);

(B) to limit the discretion or ability of the Secretary to conduct an assessment under this section;

(D) to prevent the Secretary from requesting security and safety measures that the Secretary considers necessary to safeguard Coast Guard personnel during the repatriation of aliens to their respective countries of origin.

(4) Notification to congress.—Not later than 30 days before entering into an agreement or arrangement with a foreign government under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall notify the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate of the proposed terms of such agreement or arrangement.

(g) State Sponsors of Terrorism and International Terrorist Organizations.—The Secretary—

(1) may not enter into an agreement under subsection (f)(2) with—

(A) a foreign government that is a state sponsor of terrorism (as defined in section 3316(h)); or

(B) an entity designated by the Secretary of State as a foreign terrorist organization pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189); and

(2) shall—

(A) deem any port that is under the jurisdiction of a foreign government that is a state sponsor of terrorism as not having effective antiterrorism measures for purposes of this section and section 70109; and

(B) immediately apply the sanctions described in section 70110(a) to such port.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2079; amended Pub. L. 109–347, title II, §234, Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1918; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §806(a)(1), (c)(2)(B), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2992, 2993; Pub. L. 114–120, title III, §317, Feb. 8, 2016, 130 Stat. 62; Pub. L. 118–31, div. E, title LVI, §5603, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 959.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 118–31, §5603(1)(A), substituted "if—" and subpars. (A) and (B) for "provided that the Secretary certifies that the foreign government or international organization has—

"(A) conducted the assessment in accordance with subsection (b); and

"(B) provided the Secretary with sufficient information pertaining to its assessment (including, but not limited to, information on the outcome of the assessment)."

Subsec. (f)(3). Pub. L. 118–31, §5603(1)(B), amended par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to—

"(A) require the Secretary to recognize an assessment that a foreign government or an international organization has conducted; or

"(B) limit the discretion or ability of the Secretary to conduct an assessment under this section."

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 118–31, §5603(2), added subsec. (g).

2016—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 114–120 added subsec. (f).

2010—Subsec. (c)(2) to (4). Pub. L. 111–281, §806(c)(2)(B), redesignated pars. (3) and (4) as (2) and (3), respectively, and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "the Secretary of the Treasury;".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 111–281, §806(a)(1), added subsec. (e).

2006—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 109–347 added subsec. (d).

§70109. Notifying foreign authorities

(a) In General.—Unless the Secretary finds that a port in a foreign country maintains effective antiterrorism measures, the Secretary shall notify the appropriate authorities of the government of the foreign country of the finding and recommend the steps necessary to improve the antiterrorism measures in use at the port.

(b) Training Program.—The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of State, shall operate a port security training program for ports in foreign countries that are found under section 70108 to lack effective antiterrorism measures.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2080; amended Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §806(a)(2), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2992.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2010—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 111–281 substituted "Unless the Secretary finds that a port in a foreign country maintains effective antiterrorism measures," for "If the Secretary, after conducting an assessment under section 70108, finds that a port in a foreign country does not maintain effective antiterrorism measures,".

§70110. Actions and assistance for foreign ports or facilities and United States territories

(a) In General.—Unless the Secretary finds that a foreign port or facility maintains effective antiterrorism measures, the Secretary—

(1) may prescribe conditions of entry into the United States for any vessel arriving from that port or facility, or any vessel carrying cargo or passengers originating from or transshipped through that port or facility;

(2) may deny entry into the United States to any vessel that does not meet such conditions; and

(3) shall provide public notice for passengers of the ineffective antiterrorism measures.

(b) Effective Date for Sanctions.—Any action taken by the Secretary under subsection (a) for a particular port or facility shall take effect—

(1) 90 days after the government of the foreign country with jurisdiction over or control of that port or facility is notified under section 70109 unless the Secretary finds that the government has brought the antiterrorism measures at the port or facility up to the security level the Secretary used in making an assessment under section 70108 before the end of that 90-day period; or

(2) immediately upon the finding of the Secretary under subsection (a) if the Secretary finds, after consulting with the Secretary of State, that a condition exists that threatens the safety or security of passengers, vessels, or crew traveling to or from the port or facility.

(c) State Department To Be Notified.—The Secretary immediately shall notify the Secretary of State of a finding that a port or facility does not maintain effective antiterrorism measures.

(d) Action Canceled.—An action required under this section is no longer required if the Secretary decides that effective antiterrorism measures are maintained at the port or facility.

(e) Assistance for Foreign Ports, Facilities, and United States Territories.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of Energy, shall identify assistance programs that could facilitate implementation of port or facility security antiterrorism measures in foreign countries and territories of the United States. The Secretary shall establish a strategic plan to utilize those assistance programs to assist ports and facilities that are found by the Secretary under subsection (a) not to maintain effective antiterrorism measures in the implementation of port or facility security antiterrorism measures.

(2) Caribbean basin.—The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of State and in consultation with the Organization of American States and the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall place particular emphasis on utilizing programs to facilitate the implementation of port or facility security antiterrorism measures at the ports located in the Caribbean Basin, as such ports pose unique security and safety threats to the United States due to—

(A) the strategic location of such ports between South America and the United States;

(B) the relative openness of such ports; and

(f) Coast Guard Assistance Program.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary may lend, lease, donate, or otherwise provide equipment, and provide technical training and support, to the owner or operator of a foreign port or facility—

(A) to assist in bringing the port or facility into compliance with applicable International Ship and Port Facility Code standards; and

(B) to assist the port or facility in correcting deficiencies identified in periodic port assessments and reassessments required under section 70108 of this title.

(2) Conditions.—The Secretary—

(A) may provide such assistance based upon an assessment of the risks to the security of the United States and the inability of the owner or operator of the port or facility to bring the port or facility into compliance with those standards and to maintain compliance with, or exceed, such standards;

(B) may not provide such assistance unless the port or facility has been subjected to a comprehensive port security assessment by the Coast Guard; and

(C) may only lend, lease, or otherwise provide equipment that the Secretary has first determined is not required by the Coast Guard for the performance of its missions.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2080; amended Pub. L. 109–347, title II, §233(b), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1917; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §806(a)(3)–(c)(2)(A), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2992, 2993; Pub. L. 111–330, §1(12), Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3570.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2010—Pub. L. 111–281, §806(c)(2)(A)(i), as amended by Pub. L. 111–330, inserted "or facilities" after "ports" in section catchline.

Pub. L. 111–281, §806(c)(2)(A)(ii), inserted "or facility" after "port" wherever appearing except in subsec. (f), which was added by Pub. L. 111–281, §806(b), to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 111–281, §806(a)(3), substituted "Unless the Secretary finds that a foreign port maintains effective antiterrorism measures," for "If the Secretary finds that a foreign port does not maintain effective antiterrorism measures,".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 111–281, §806(c)(2)(A)(iii), substituted "Ports, Facilities," for "Ports" in heading.

Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 111–281, §806(c)(1), substituted "The Secretary shall establish a strategic plan to utilize those assistance programs to assist ports and facilities that are found by the Secretary under subsection (a) not to maintain effective antiterrorism measures in the implementation of port security antiterrorism measures." for "The Secretary shall establish a program to utilize the programs that are capable of implementing port security antiterrorism measures at ports in foreign countries and territories of the United States that the Secretary finds to lack effective antiterrorism measures."

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 111–281, §806(b), added subsec. (f).

2006—Pub. L. 109–347, §233(b)(1), substituted "Actions and assistance for foreign ports and United States territories" for "Actions when foreign ports not maintaining effective antiterrorism measures" in section catchline.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 109–347, §233(b)(2), added subsec. (e).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2010 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–330, §1, Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3569, provided that the amendment made by section 1(12) is effective with the enactment of Pub. L. 111–281.

§70111. Enhanced crewmember identification

(a) Requirement.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the SAFE Port Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of State, shall require crewmembers on vessels calling at United States ports to carry and present on demand any identification that the Secretary decides is necessary.

(b) Forms and Process.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the SAFE Port Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of State, shall establish the proper forms and process that shall be used for identification and verification of crewmembers.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2080; amended Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §110, Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1893.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of the SAFE Port Act, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (b), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–347, which was approved Oct. 13, 2006.

Amendments

2006—Subsecs. (a), (b). Pub. L. 109–347 substituted "Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the SAFE Port Act, the" for "The".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

International Seafarer Identification

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §103, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2084, provided that:

"(a) Treaty Initiative.—The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating is encouraged to negotiate an international agreement, or an amendment to an international agreement, that provides for a uniform, comprehensive, international system of identification for seafarers that will enable the United States and another country to establish authoritatively the identity of any seafarer aboard a vessel within the jurisdiction, including the territorial waters, of the United States or such other country.

"(b) Legislative Alternative.—If the Secretary fails to complete a negotiation process undertaken under subsection (a) within 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2002], the Secretary shall transmit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a draft of legislation that, if enacted, would establish a uniform, comprehensive system of identification for seafarers."

[For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.]

§70112. Maritime Security Advisory Committees

(a) National Maritime Security Advisory Committee.—

(1) Establishment.—There is established a National Maritime Security Advisory Committee (in this subsection referred to as the "Committee").

(2) Function.—The Committee shall advise the Secretary on matters relating to national maritime security, including on enhancing the sharing of information related to cybersecurity risks that may cause a transportation security incident, between relevant Federal agencies and—

(A) State, local, and tribal governments;

(B) relevant public safety and emergency response agencies;

(D) maritime industry;

(E) port owners and operators; and

(F) terminal owners and operators.

(3) Membership.—

(A) In general.—The Committee shall consist of at least 8 members, but not more than 21 members, appointed by the Secretary in accordance with this subsection and section 15109 of this title.

(B) Expertise.—Each member of the Committee shall have particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in matters relating to the function of the Committee.

(i) Port authorities.

(ii) Facilities owners and operators.

(iii) Terminal owners and operators.

(iv) Vessel owners and operators.

(v) Maritime labor organizations.

(vi) The academic community.

(vii) State and local governments.

(viii) The maritime industry.

(D) Distribution.—If the Committee consists of at least 8 members who, together, satisfy the minimum representation requirements of subparagraph (C), the Secretary shall, based on the needs of the Coast Guard, determine the number of additional members of the Committee who represent each entity specified in that subparagraph. Neither this subparagraph nor any other provision of law shall be construed to require an equal distribution of members representing each entity specified in subparagraph (C).

(4) Administration.—For purposes of section 15109 of this title, the Committee shall be treated as a committee established under chapter 151 of such title.

(b) Area Maritime Security Advisory Committees.—

(1) In general.—

(A) Establishment.—The Secretary may—

(i) establish an Area Maritime Security Advisory Committee for any port area of the United States; and

(ii) request such a committee to review the proposed Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan developed under section 70103(b) and make recommendations to the Secretary that the committee considers appropriate.

(B) Additional functions and meetings.—A committee established under this subsection for an area—

(i) may advise, consult with, report to, and make recommendations to the Secretary on matters relating to maritime security in that area;

(ii) may make available to the Congress recommendations that the committee makes to the Secretary; and

(iii) shall meet at the call of—

(I) the Secretary, who shall call such a meeting at least once during each calendar year; or

(II) a majority of the committee.

(2) Membership.—

(A) In general.—Each committee established under this subsection shall consist of at least 7 members appointed by the Secretary, each of whom has at least 5 years practical experience in maritime security operations.

(B) Terms.—The term of each member of a committee established under this subsection shall be for a period of not more than 5 years, specified by the Secretary.

(C) Notice.—Before appointing an individual to a position on a committee established under this subsection, the Secretary shall publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting nominations for membership on the committee.

(D) Background examinations.—The Secretary may require an individual to have passed an appropriate security background examination before appointment to a committee established under this subsection.

(E) Representation.—Each committee established under this subsection shall be composed of individuals who represent the interests of the port industry, terminal operators, port labor organizations, and other users of the port areas.

(3) Chairperson and vice chairperson.—

(A) In general.—Each committee established under this subsection shall elect 1 of the committee's members as the Chairperson and 1 of the committee's members as the Vice Chairperson.

(B) Vice chairperson acting as chairperson.—The Vice Chairperson shall act as Chairperson in the absence or incapacity of the Chairperson, or in the event of a vacancy in the office of the Chairperson.

(4) Observers.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall, and the head of any other interested Federal agency may, designate a representative to participate as an observer with a committee established under this subsection.

(B) Role.—The Secretary's designated representative to a committee established under this subsection shall act as the executive secretary of the committee and shall perform the duties set forth in section 1009(c) of title 5.

(5) Consideration of views.—The Secretary shall consider the information, advice, and recommendations of each committee established under this subsection in formulating policy regarding matters affecting maritime security.

(6) Compensation and expenses.—

(A) In general.—A member of a committee established under this subsection, when attending meetings of the committee or when otherwise engaged in the business of the committee, is entitled to receive—

(i) compensation at a rate fixed by the Secretary, not exceeding the daily equivalent of the current rate of basic pay in effect for GS–15 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5 including travel time; and

(ii) travel or transportation expenses under section 5703 of title 5.

(B) Status.—A member of a committee established under this subsection shall not be considered to be an officer or employee of the United States for any purpose based on the receipt of any payment under this paragraph.

(7) Chapter 10 of title 5.—Chapter 10 of title 5 does not apply to a committee established under this subsection.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2081; amended Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §806, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1082; Pub. L. 109–241, title IX, §901(m), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §810, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2995; Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1805(c)(1), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3534; Pub. L. 115–282, title VI, §602(a), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4290; Pub. L. 117–286, §4(a)(294), (295), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4338.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (b)(4)(B). Pub. L. 117–286, §4(a)(294), substituted "section 1009(c) of title 5." for "section 10(c) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.)."

Subsec. (b)(7). Pub. L. 117–286, §4(a)(295), substituted "Chapter 10 of title 5" for "FACA" in heading and "Chapter 10 of title 5" for "The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.)" in text.

2018—Pub. L. 115–282, §602(a), amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section required Secretary to establish a National Maritime Security Advisory Committee and authorized Secretary to establish an Area Maritime Security Advisory Committee for any port area of the United States.

Subsec. (a)(1)(A). Pub. L. 115–254 inserted ", including on enhancing the sharing of information related to cybersecurity risks that may cause a transportation security incident, between relevant Federal agencies and—" in introductory provisions and added cls. (i) to (vi).

2010—Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 111–281, §810(1), amended par. (5) generally. Prior to amendment par. (5) read as follows: "The membership of an Area Maritime Security Advisory Committee shall include representatives of the port industry, terminal operators, port labor organizations, and other users of the port areas."

Subsec. (g)(1)(A). Pub. L. 111–281, §810(2)(A), substituted "2020;" for "2008;".

Subsec. (g)(2). Pub. L. 111–281, §810(2)(B), substituted "2018" for "2006".

2006—Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 109–241 realigned margins.

2004—Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 108–293 added par. (5).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Treatment of Existing Committee

Pub. L. 115–282, title VI, §602(b), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4293, provided that: "Notwithstanding any other provision of law—

"(1) an advisory committee substantially similar to the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee established under section 70112(a) of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this section, and that was in force or in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this section [Dec. 4, 2018], may remain in force or in effect for a period of 2 years from the date of enactment of this section, including that the charter, membership, and other aspects of the committee may remain in force or in effect; and

"(2) during the 2-year period referenced in paragraph (1)—

"(A) requirements relating to the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee established under section 70112(a) of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this section, shall be treated as satisfied by the substantially similar advisory committee; and

"(B) the enactment of this section, including the amendments made in this section, shall not be the basis—

"(i) to deem, find, or declare such committee, including the charter, membership, and other aspects thereof, void, not in force, or not in effect;

"(ii) to suspend the activities of such committee; or

"(iii) to bar the members of such committee from meeting."

Cybersecurity Information Sharing and Coordination in Ports

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1805(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3533, provided that:

"(a) Maritime Cybersecurity Risk Assessment Model.—The Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commandant of the Coast Guard and the Under Secretary responsible for overseeing the critical infrastructure protection, cybersecurity, and other related programs of the Department of Homeland Security, shall—

"(1) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], coordinate with the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee, the Area Maritime Security Advisory Committees, and other maritime stakeholders, as necessary, to develop and implement a maritime cybersecurity risk assessment model, consistent with the activities described in section 2(e) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(e)), to evaluate current and future cybersecurity risks that have the potential to affect the marine transportation system or that would cause a transportation security incident (as defined in section 70101 of title 46, United States Code) in ports; and

"(2) not less than biennially thereafter, evaluate the effectiveness of the cybersecurity risk assessment model established under paragraph (1)."

Information Sharing

Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1805(c)(2), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3534, provided that: "The Commandant of the Coast Guard and the Under Secretary responsible for overseeing the critical infrastructure protection, cybersecurity, and other related programs of the Department of Homeland Security shall—

"(A) ensure there is a process for each Area Maritime Security Advisory Committee established under section 70112 of title 46, United States Code—

"(i) to facilitate the sharing of information related to cybersecurity risks that may cause transportation security incidents;

"(ii) to timely report transportation security incidents to the national level; and

"(iii) to disseminate such reports across the entire maritime transportation system via the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center; and

"(B) issue voluntary guidance for the management of such cybersecurity risks in each Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan and facility security plan required under section 70103 of title 46, United States Code, approved after the date that the cybersecurity risk assessment model is developed under subsection (a) of this section [set out as a note above]."

§70113. Maritime intelligence

(a) In General.—The Secretary shall implement a system to collect, integrate, and analyze information concerning vessels operating on or bound for waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including information related to crew, passengers, cargo, and intermodal shipments. The system may include a vessel risk profiling component that assigns incoming vessels a terrorism risk rating.

(b) Consultation.—In developing the information system under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with the Transportation Security Oversight Board and other departments and agencies, as appropriate.

(c) Information Integration.—To deter a transportation security incident, the Secretary may collect information from public and private entities to the extent that the information is not provided by other Federal departments and agencies.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2082; amended Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §803(a), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1080.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–293 inserted at end "The system may include a vessel risk profiling component that assigns incoming vessels a terrorism risk rating."

§70114. Automatic identification systems

(a) System Requirements.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the following vessels, while operating on the navigable waters of the United States, shall be equipped with and operate an automatic identification system under regulations prescribed by the Secretary:

(A) A self-propelled commercial vessel of at least 65 feet overall in length.

(B) A vessel carrying more than a number of passengers for hire determined by the Secretary.

(D) Any other vessel for which the Secretary decides that an automatic identification system is necessary for the safe navigation of the vessel.

(2) The Secretary may—

(A) exempt a vessel from paragraph (1) if the Secretary finds that an automatic identification system is not necessary for the safe navigation of the vessel on the waters on which the vessel operates; and

(B) waive the application of paragraph (1) with respect to operation of vessels on navigable waters of the United States specified by the Secretary if the Secretary finds that automatic identification systems are not needed for safe navigation on those waters.

(b) Regulations.—The Secretary shall prescribe regulations implementing subsection (a), including requirements for the operation and maintenance of the automatic identification systems required under subsection (a).

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2082.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(e), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2084, provided that:

"(1) Schedule.—Section 70114 of title 46, United States Code, as enacted by this Act, shall apply as follows:

"(A) On and after January 1, 2003, to any vessel built after that date.

"(B) On and after July 1, 2003, to any vessel built before the date referred to in subparagraph (A) that is—

"(i) a passenger vessel required to carry a certificate under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS) [see 33 U.S.C. 1602 and notes thereunder];

"(ii) a tanker; or

"(iii) a towing vessel engaged in moving a tank vessel.

"(C) On and after December 31, 2004, to all other vessels built before the date referred to in subparagraph (A).

"(2) Definition.—The terms in this subsection have the same meaning as those terms have under section 2101 [now also 115] of title 46, United States Code."

§70115. Long-range vessel tracking system

Not later than April 1, 2007, the Secretary shall, consistent with international treaties, conventions, and agreements to which the United States is a party, develop and implement a long-range automated vessel tracking system for all vessels in United States waters that are equipped with the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System or equivalent satellite technology. The system shall be designed to provide the Secretary the capability of receiving information on vessel positions at interval positions appropriate to deter transportation security incidents. The Secretary may use existing maritime organizations to collect and monitor tracking information under the system.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2083; amended Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §803(b), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1080; Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §107(a), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1891.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–347, in first sentence, substituted "Not later than April 1, 2007, the Secretary" for "The Secretary".

2004—Pub. L. 108–293, in first sentence, substituted "shall, consistent with international treaties, conventions, and agreements to which the United States is a party," for "may".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Regulations

Pub. L. 109–347, title I, §107(b), Oct. 13, 2006, 120 Stat. 1891, provided that: "The Secretary [of Homeland Security] may issue regulations to establish a voluntary long-range automated vessel tracking system for vessels described in section 70115 of title 46, United States Code, during the period before regulations are issued under such section."

Long-Range Vessel Tracking System

Pub. L. 109–241, title IV, §404, July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 535, provided that:

"(a) Pilot Project.—The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall conduct a 3-year pilot program for long-range tracking of up to 2,000 vessels using satellite systems with a nonprofit maritime organization that has a demonstrated capability of operating a variety of satellite communications systems providing data to vessel tracking software and hardware that provides long-range vessel information to the Coast Guard to aid maritime security and response to maritime emergencies.

"(b) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006, 2007, and 2008 to carry out subsection (a)."

§70116. Port, harbor, and coastal facility security

(a) General Authority.—The Secretary may take actions described in subsection (b) to prevent or respond to an act of terrorism, cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, and foreign state threats against—

(1) an individual, vessel, or public or commercial structure, that is—

(A) subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; and

(B) located within or adjacent to the marine environment; or

(2) a vessel of the United States or an individual on board that vessel.

(b) Specific Authority.—Under subsection (a), the Secretary may—

(1) carry out or require measures, including inspections, port and harbor patrols, the establishment of security and safety zones, and the development of contingency plans and procedures, to prevent or respond to acts of terrorism cyber ¹ incidents, transnational organized crime, and foreign state threats;

(2) recruit members of the Regular Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Reserve and train members of the Regular Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Reserve in the techniques of preventing and responding to acts of terrorism cyber ¹ incidents, transnational organized crime, and foreign state threats; and

(3) dispatch properly trained and qualified, armed (as needed), Coast Guard personnel on vessels and public or commercial structures on or adjacent to waters subject to United States jurisdiction to deter or respond to acts of terrorism, cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, foreign state threats, or transportation security incidents, as defined in section 70101 of title 46, United States Code.

(c) Definitions, Administration, and Enforcement.—This section shall be treated as part of chapter 700 for purposes of sections 70031, 70032, 70033, 70035, and 70036. When preventing or responding to acts of terrorism, cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, or foreign state threats, the Secretary may carry out this section without regard to chapters 5 and 6 of title 5 or Executive Order Nos. 12866 and 13563.

(Added and amended Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §402(b)(1), (2), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4264; Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXIII [LXXXIII], §8341, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4709.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Executive Order Nos. 12866 and 13563, referred to in subsec. (c), are set out as notes under section 601 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Codification

Section, as added and amended by Pub. L. 115–282, is based on subsecs. (a) and (b) of Pub. L. 92–340, §7, as added Pub. L. 99–399, title IX, §906, Aug. 27, 1986, 100 Stat. 890; amended Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §107(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2088, which was formerly classified to section 1226(a), (b) of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters, before being transferred to this chapter and renumbered as this section. Subsections (a) and (b) of section 7 of Pub. L. 92–340 were also renumbered as section 70102a of this title by Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §408(a), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4268.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 70116, added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2083, related to secure systems of transportation, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 115–254, div. J, §1809(b), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3538.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–283, §8341(1), inserted ", cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, and foreign state threats" after "an act of terrorism" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1), (2). Pub. L. 116–283, §8341(2)(A), inserted "cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, and foreign state threats" after "terrorism".

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 116–283, §8341(2)(B), substituted ", armed (as needed)," for "armed" and "terrorism, cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, foreign state threats, or transportation security incidents," for "terrorism or transportation security incidents,".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–283, §8341(3), substituted "70033," for "70034," and inserted at end "When preventing or responding to acts of terrorism, cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, or foreign state threats, the Secretary may carry out this section without regard to chapters 5 and 6 of title 5 or Executive Order Nos. 12866 and 13563."

2018—Pub. L. 115–282, §402(b)(1), transferred section catchline and subsecs. (a) and (b) of section 7 of Pub. L. 92–340 to this chapter and redesignated them as this section. See Codification note above. Catchline text was editorially conformed to the style used in this title.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 115–282, §402(b)(2), added subsec. (c).

¹ So in original. Probably should be preceded by a comma.

[§70117. Repealed. Pub. L. 111–281, title II, §208(b), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2912]

Section, added Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §801(a), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1078, §70118; renumbered §70117, Pub. L. 109–241, title IX, §901(l)(1), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(A), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1705; Pub. L. 110–181, div. C, title XXXV, §3529(c)(1), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 603, related to firearms, arrests, and seizure of property.

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 70117 was renumbered section 70120 of this title.

Another prior section 70117 was renumbered section 70119 of this title.

§70118. Enforcement by State and local officers

(a) In General.—Any State or local government law enforcement officer who has authority to enforce State criminal laws may make an arrest for violation of a security zone regulation prescribed under section 1 ¹ of title II of the Act of June 15, 1917 (chapter 30; 50 U.S.C. 191) or security or safety zone regulation under section 7(b) ¹ of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act (33 U.S.C. 1226(b)) or a safety zone regulation prescribed under section 10(d) of the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 (33 U.S.C. 1509(d)) by a Coast Guard official authorized by law to prescribe such regulations, if—

(1) such violation is a felony; and

(2) the officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person to be arrested has committed or is committing such violation.

(b) Other Powers not Affected.—The provisions of this section are in addition to any power conferred by law to such officers. This section shall not be construed as a limitation of any power conferred by law to such officers, or any other officer of the United States or any State. This section does not grant to such officers any powers not authorized by the law of the State in which those officers are employed.

(Added Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §801(a), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1078, §70119; renumbered §70118, Pub. L. 109–241, title IX, §901(l)(1), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(A), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1705; Pub. L. 110–181, div. C, title XXXV, §3529(c)(1), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 603.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 1 of title II of the Act of June 15, 1917, referred to in subsec. (a), which was classified to section 191 of Title 50, War and National Defense, was redesignated and transferred to section 70051 of this title by Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §407(b)(1), (5), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4267.

Section 7(b) of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act, referred to in subsec. (a), which was classified to section 1226(b) of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters, was redesignated and transferred to section 70116(b) of this title by Pub. L. 115–282, title IV, §402(b)(1), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4264. A duplicate transfer to section 70102a(b) of this title by section 408(a) of Pub. L. 115–282 was repealed by Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXV [LXXXV], §8507(d)(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4754.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 70118 was renumbered section 70117 of this title and subsequently repealed.

Another prior section 70118 was renumbered section 70121 of this title.

Amendments

2008—Pub. L. 110–181 repealed Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(A). See 2006 Amendment note below.

2006—Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(A), which directed renumbering identical to that made by Pub. L. 109–241, was repealed by Pub. L. 110–181. See Amendment note and Construction of 2006 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 109–241 renumbered section 70119 of this title, as added by Pub. L. 108–293, §801(a), as this section.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Construction of 2006 Amendment

Provisions of Pub. L. 109–304 repealed by section 3529(c)(1) of Pub. L. 110–181 to be treated as if never enacted, see section 3529(c)(2) of Pub. L. 110–181, set out as a note under section 9504 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§70119. Civil penalty

(a) In General.—Any person that violates this chapter or any regulation under this chapter shall be liable to the United States for a civil penalty of not more than $25,000 for each day during which the violation continues.

(b) Continuing Violations.—The maximum amount of a civil penalty for a violation under this section shall not exceed $50,000.

(Added Pub. L. 107–295, title I, §102(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2084, §70117; renumbered §70119, Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §802(a)(1), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1078; amended Pub. L. 109–241, title III, §306(a), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 528.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Another section 70119 was renumbered section 70118 of this title.

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–241 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted heading, substituted "day during which the violation continues" for "violation", and added subsec. (b).

§70120. In rem liability for civil penalties and certain costs

(a) Civil Penalties.—Any vessel operated in violation of this chapter or any regulations prescribed under this chapter shall be liable in rem for any civil penalty assessed pursuant to section 70119 for such violation, and may be proceeded against for such liability in the United States district court for any district in which the vessel may be found.

(b) Reimbursable Costs of Service Providers.—A vessel shall be liable in rem for the reimbursable costs incurred by any service provider related to implementation and enforcement of this chapter and arising from a violation by the operator of the vessel of this chapter or any regulations prescribed under this chapter, and may be proceeded against for such liability in the United States district court for any district in which such vessel may be found.

(1) the term "reimbursable costs" means costs incurred by any service provider acting in conformity with a lawful order of the Federal government or in conformity with the instructions of the vessel operator; and

(2) the term "service provider" means any port authority, facility or terminal operator, shipping agent, Federal, State, or local government agency, or other person to whom the management of the vessel at the port of supply is entrusted, for—

(A) services rendered to or in relation to vessel crew on board the vessel, or in transit to or from the vessel, including accommodation, detention, transportation, and medical expenses; and

(B) required handling of cargo or other items on board the vessel.

(Added Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §802(a)(2), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1078, §70117; renumbered §70120 and amended Pub. L. 109–241, title IX, §901(l)(2), (3), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(B), (C), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1705; Pub. L. 110–181, div. C, title XXXV, §3529(c)(1), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 603.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2008—Pub. L. 110–181 repealed Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(B), (C). See 2006 Amendment notes below.

2006—Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(B), which directed renumbering identical to that made by Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(2), was repealed by Pub. L. 110–181. See Amendment note and Construction of 2006 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(2), renumbered section 70117 of this title, as added by Pub. L. 108–293, §802(a)(2), as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(C), which directed amendment identical to that made by Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(3), was repealed by Pub. L. 110–181. See Amendment note and Construction of 2006 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(3), substituted "section 70119" for "section 70120".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Construction of 2006 Amendment

§70121. Withholding of clearance

(a) Refusal or Revocation of Clearance.—If any owner, agent, master, officer, or person in charge of a vessel is liable for a penalty under section 70119, or if reasonable cause exists to believe that the owner, agent, master, officer, or person in charge may be subject to a penalty under section 70119, the Secretary may, with respect to such vessel, refuse or revoke any clearance required by section 60105 of this title.

(b) Clearance Upon Filing of Bond or Other Surety.—The Secretary may require the filing of a bond or other surety as a condition of granting clearance refused or revoked under this subsection.

(Added Pub. L. 108–293, title VIII, §802(a)(2), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1079, §70118; renumbered §70121 and amended Pub. L. 109–241, title IX, §901(l)(2), (4), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 565; Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(B), (D), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1705; Pub. L. 110–181, div. C, title XXXV, §3529(c)(1), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 603.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2008—Pub. L. 110–181 repealed Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(B), (D)(i). See 2006 Amendment notes below.

Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(2), renumbered section 70118 of this title, as added by Pub. L. 108–293, §802(a)(2), as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(D)(ii), substituted "section 60105 of this title" for "section 4197 of the Revised Statutes of the United States (46 U.S.C. App. 91)".

Pub. L. 109–304, §15(33)(D)(i), which directed amendment identical to that made by Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(4), was repealed by Pub. L. 110–181. See Amendment note and Construction of 2006 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 109–241, §901(l)(4), substituted "section 70119" for "section 70120".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Construction of 2006 Amendment

§70122. Waterway Watch Program

(a) Program Established.—There is hereby established, within the Coast Guard, the America's Waterway Watch Program.

(b) Purpose.—The Secretary shall administer the Program in a manner that promotes voluntary reporting of activities that may indicate that a person or persons may be preparing to engage or engaging in a violation of law relating to a threat or an act of terrorism (as that term is defined in section 3077 of title 18) against a vessel, facility, port, or waterway.

(1) Information.—The Secretary may establish, as an element of the Program, a network of individuals and community-based organizations that encourage the public and industry to recognize activities referred to in subsection (b), promote voluntary reporting of such activity, and enhance the situational awareness within the Nation's ports and waterways. Such network shall, to the extent practicable, be conducted in cooperation with Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies.

(2) Training.—The Secretary may provide training in—

(A) observing and reporting on covered activities; and

(B) sharing such reports and coordinating the response by Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies.

(d) Voluntary Participation.—Participation in the Program—

(1) shall be wholly voluntary;

(2) shall not be a prerequisite to eligibility for, or receipt of, any other service or assistance from, or to participation in, any other program of any kind; and

(3) shall not require disclosure of information regarding the individual reporting covered activities or, for proprietary purposes, the location of such individual.

(e) Coordination.—The Secretary shall coordinate the Program with other like watch programs. The Secretary shall submit, concurrent with the President's budget submission for each fiscal year, a report on coordination of the Program and like watch programs within the Department of Homeland Security to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives.

(f) Authorization of Appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated for the purposes of this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2011 through 2016. Such funds shall remain available until expended.

(Added Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §801(a), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2988; amended Pub. L. 114–120, title III, §306(a)(11), Feb. 8, 2016, 130 Stat. 55.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2016—Pub. L. 114–120 substituted "Watch Program" for "watch program" in section catchline.

§70123. Mobile biometric identification

(a) In General.—Within one year after the date of the enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, the Secretary shall conduct, in the maritime environment, a program for the mobile biometric identification of suspected individuals, including terrorists, to enhance border security and for other purposes.

(b) Requirements.—The Secretary shall ensure the program required in this section is coordinated with other biometric identification programs within the Department of Homeland Security.

(c) Definition.—For the purposes of this section, the term "biometric identification" means use of fingerprint and digital photography images and facial and iris scan technology and any other technology considered applicable by the Department of Homeland Security.

(Added Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §807(a), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2993.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, referred to in subsec. (a), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 111–281, which was approved Oct. 15, 2010.

§70124. Regulations

Unless otherwise provided, the Secretary may issue regulations necessary to implement this chapter.

(Added Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §820(a), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3001.)

§70125. Port security training for facility security officers

(a) Facility Security Officers.—The Secretary shall establish comprehensive facility security officer training requirements designed to provide full security training that would lead to certification of such officers. In establishing the requirements, the Secretary shall—

(1) work with affected industry stakeholders; and

(2) evaluate—

(A) the requirements of subsection (b);

(B) existing security training programs employed at marine terminal facilities; and

(b) Requirements.—The training program shall provide validated training that—

(1) provides training at the awareness, performance, management, and planning levels;

(2) utilizes multiple training mediums and methods;

(3) establishes a validated provisional on-line certification methodology;

(4) provide for continuing education and training for facility security officers beyond certification requirements, including a program to educate on the dangers and issues associated with the shipment of hazardous and especially hazardous cargo;

(5) addresses port security topics, including—

(A) facility security plans and procedures, including how to develop security plans and security procedure requirements when threat levels are elevated;

(B) facility security force operations and management;

(D) methods of security for preventing and countering cargo theft;

(E) container security;

(F) recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances, and devices;

(G) operation and maintenance of security equipment and systems;

(H) security threats and patterns;

(I) security incident procedures, including procedures for communicating with governmental and nongovernmental emergency response providers; and

(J) evacuation procedures;

(6) is consistent with, and supports implementation of, the National Incident Management System, the National Response Plan, the National Infrastructure Protection Plan, the National Preparedness Guidance, the National Preparedness Goal, the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan, and other such national initiatives;

(7) is evaluated against clear and consistent performance measures;

(8) addresses security requirements under facility security plans;

(9) addresses requirements under the International Code for the Security of Ships and Port Facilities to address shore leave for mariners and access to visitors, representatives of seafarers' welfare organizations, and labor organizations; and

(10) such other subject matters as may be prescribed by the Secretary.

(c) Continuing Security Training.—The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation, shall work with State and local law enforcement agencies and industry stakeholders to develop and certify the following additional security training requirements for Federal, State, and local officials with security responsibilities at United States seaports:

(1) A program to familiarize them with port and shipping operations, requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (Public Law 107–295), and other port and cargo security programs that educates and trains them with respect to their roles and responsibilities.

(2) A program to familiarize them with dangers and potential issues with respect to shipments of hazardous and especially hazardous cargoes.

(3) A program of continuing education as deemed necessary by the Secretary.

(d) Training Partners.—In developing curriculum and delivering training established pursuant to subsections (a) and (c), the Secretary, in coordination with the Maritime Administrator of the Department of Transportation and consistent with section 109 of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (46 U.S.C. 70101 note), shall work with institutions with maritime expertise and with industry stakeholders with security expertise to develop appropriate training capacity to ensure that training can be provided in a geographically balanced manner to personnel seeking certification under subsection (a) or education and training under subsection (c).

(e) Established Grant Program.—The Secretary shall issue regulations or grant solicitations for grants for homeland security or port security to ensure that activities surrounding the development of curriculum and the provision of training and these activities are eligible grant activities under both grant programs.

(Added Pub. L. 111–281, title VIII, §821(a), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 3001; amended Pub. L. 111–330, §1(14), Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3570.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, referred to in subsec. (c)(1), is Pub. L. 107–295, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2064. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Tables.

Amendments

2010—Pub. L. 111–330 amended Pub. L. 111–281, §821(a), which enacted this section.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2010 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–330, §1, Dec. 22, 2010, 124 Stat. 3569, provided that the amendment made by section 1(12) is effective with the enactment of Pub. L. 111–281.