TWICE Act Passes House

The House of Representatives passed the TWIC Efficiency Act (H.R. 5109), also known as the TWICE Act, September 16. It is a bipartisan bill that directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to create guidelines helping incarcerated individuals pre-apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) before their release.

It was introduced by Reps. Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-La.) and Clay Higgins (R-La.). It does not alter existing background check criteria, eligibility rules or disqualifying offenses required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act, but it does streamline the process of applying. It directs federal, state and local prisons to help inmates prepare and submit TWIC applications prior to release and to provide guidance for individuals seeking an appeal or waiver if they receive a preliminary determination of ineligibility.