ATA Calls on Congress to Streamline Transport Credentials

The American Trucking Associations, along with over 150 supply chain organizations, is advocating for Congress to pass the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act, aimed at streamlining the credentialing process for essential transportation workers. This legislation is designed to eliminate redundant fees and background checks that workers currently face, thereby addressing inefficiencies that have persisted over time. ATA President Chris Spear emphasized the importance of the bill for various sectors including trucking, rail, energy, and agriculture, asserting that it would alleviate burdens on essential workers by modernizing the credentialing system. The bill proposes a consolidation of existing Transportation Security Administration programs, allowing a single background check to apply across multiple credentials, significantly reducing the bureaucratic hassle and costs to workers. The introduction of this bill is backed by bipartisan support from various lawmakers and stakeholders, reflecting a broad agreement on the necessity for reform in this area. The recommendations for such reforms have been recognized for many years, dating back to 2007 when they were highlighted by the Government Accountability Office, and reiterated by reports in recent years indicating an ongoing need for improvement. In transportation, efficiency and safety are paramount. Streamlining credentialing processes is not only a matter of cost savings for workers but also serves a crucial role in ensuring that the supply chain operates smoothly and remains resilient. The reduction of duplicative requirements could expedite the onboarding of necessary personnel, enhancing capacity in critical sectors just as demand continues to grow. It's a timely reform that, if enacted, could provide significant benefits across the industry.