The United States House of Representatives has approved the TWIC Efficiency Act (H.R. 5109), aimed at improving access to Transportation Worker Identification Cards (TWIC) for individuals nearing the end of their prison sentences. This law was passed on September 16 by a voice vote.
Details of the Law and Its Impact on the Workforce
This legislation was introduced by Representatives Troy Carter and Clay Higgins. The main goal of this law is to enhance access to the TWIC program for individuals who are about to complete their prison terms, including providing assistance in preparing applications and guiding them through the appeals and exemption processes.
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TWIC cards are required for unescorted access to secure areas of facilities and vessels under federal regulation. Erik Milito, President of the National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA), stated after the bill's passage: "The TWIC Act directly addresses one of the workforce bottlenecks and provides a clear pathway for qualified individuals to obtain the necessary credentials to work in the U.S. maritime and offshore energy industries."
Assisting in Hiring Qualified Individuals
Milito also noted that NOIA members have seen community reintegration programs help individuals connect with industrial jobs while also providing employers with additional candidates for hard-to-fill positions.
He added, "At a time when our industry needs more skilled workers, this bipartisan law can help connect capable individuals to well-paying jobs while maintaining important security standards." The proposed law does not eliminate any existing TWIC security requirements but seeks to assist qualified applicants in starting the credentialing process before their release and guiding them through existing appeal and exemption procedures.
After passing the House, this bill needs Senate approval before it can reach the President for signing.
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