What it does
SourcedThis bill directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to develop guidelines to improve access to a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) for prisoners prior to their release.
Specifically, TSA must develop guidelines to assist individuals in federal, state, and local prisons in (1) pre-applying or preparing an application for a TWIC card; and (2) requesting an appeal or waiver of a preliminary determination of ineligibility for a TWIC card.
As background, a TWIC card is required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act for workers who need access to secure areas of U.S. maritime facilities and vessels. TSA conducts a background check to determine a person’s eligibility and issues the credential.
Official summary by the Congressional Research Service (Introduced in House, Sep 3, 2025).
Our plain-language breakdown, with what it means for you and the case for and against, is written once a bill starts to move.
What has happened
Sourced- Sep 16, 2026Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.Library of Congress
- Sep 15, 2026Reported by the Committee on Homeland Security. H. Rept. 119-827.Library of Congress
- Sep 3, 2025Introduced in HouseLibrary of Congress
Cosponsors
- Mike Ezell R-MS-4
- Lizzie Fletcher D-TX-7
- Daniel S. Goldman D-NY-10
- Clay Higgins R-LA-3
- Morgan Luttrell R-TX-8
- August Pfluger R-TX-11
- Bennie G. Thompson D-MS-2