TSA would write guidelines to ease TWIC card access for people with criminal records
Passed one chamberH.R. 5109Latest action
Sponsor: Troy A. Carter · Representative · LA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Transportation Worker Identification Credential Efficiency Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The TSA would have one year to write guidelines on TWIC card access for people leaving incarceration, those in custody, and those appealing denials.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to write new guidelines for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential, or TWIC card, within one year of becoming law. The guidelines would cover easier access for eligible people released from incarceration, help for people in prison or jail to prepare applications ahead of time, and help for people found ineligible to request an appeal or waiver. Within 180 days after the guidelines are developed, the TSA must brief two congressional committees on how they are being put into practice.
Who does it affect?
People seeking port and maritime jobs who have a criminal record, are incarcerated, or were turned down for a card are most directly affected. Port employers and shipping companies could also be affected, since they rely on TWIC holders to fill jobs.
Why does it matter?
The bill does not change who may hold a TWIC card or which criminal records disqualify someone. It only requires the TSA to develop guidance and procedures.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Engrossed in House” text of Sep 16, 2026.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedSep 3, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Sep 16, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.