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Though many equate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with airline security, its scope extends to all modes of transportation.
Scope
With state, local and regional partners, The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) oversees security for the highways, railroads, buses, mass transit systems, ports, and the 450 U.S. airports.
Regulatory citations
- None
Key definitions
- None
Summary of requirements
On November 19, 2001, the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (A TSA) was signed into law, and among other things, established a new TSA within the United States Department of Transportation. With the passage of the Homeland Security Act, TSA was transitioned into the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as of March 1, 2003.
The Transportation Security Administration is charged with:
- Receiving, assessing, and distributing intelligence information related to transportation security;
- Assessing the threats to transportation and dealing with these threats through developed policies and procedures;
- Serving as a primary liaison between the intelligence community and law enforcement;
- Coordinating efforts with other appropriate departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the U.S. government; and
- Enforcing security-related regulations and requirements.
Roles with motor carriers. Most motor carriers are familiar with TSA for the background investigations it conducts on many of its drivers. TSA has been given the task of overseeing:
- The hazardous materials risk assessment of drivers applying for, renewing, or transferring a Commercial Driver’s License with a hazardous materials endorsement. TSA has a partnership with state licensing offices in carrying out this mandate.
- The implementation of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) for all port employees, including drivers who gain access to restricted areas of U.S. sea ports.
- The threat assessments under the air cargo security rules. TSA has published security rules for Indirect Air Carriers (IACs) who often hire motor carriers to haul air freight. IACs are required to make sure their “agents” are familiar with their security protocols, including the training of drivers. Agents’ employees (drivers) are also expected to undergo a security threat assessment to gain access to secured area within airports.
For additional information on TSA, visit its website.