(WO) — The U.S. House of Representatives has passed bipartisan legislation designed to improve access to Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) cards, a move the National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) says could help address workforce needs in the maritime and offshore energy industries.
H.R. 5109, known as the TWIC Efficiency (TWICE) Act, passed the House by voice vote on Sept. 16. The legislation was introduced by Reps. Troy Carter, D-La., and Clay Higgins, R-La.
The bill would require the Transportation Security Administration to improve access to the TWIC program for individuals nearing the end of incarceration, including assistance preparing applications and navigating the appeals and waiver process. TWIC credentials are required for unescorted access to secure areas of regulated maritime facilities and vessels.
“The TWICE Act directly addresses one workforce bottleneck by creating a clearer pathway for eligible individuals to obtain the credentials needed to work in America’s maritime and offshore energy industries,” NOIA President Erik Milito said following House passage.
Milito said NOIA members have seen reentry programs help connect individuals with industry jobs while providing employers with additional candidates for positions that can be difficult to fill.
“At a time when our industry needs more skilled workers, this bipartisan legislation can help connect capable people with good-paying careers while maintaining important security standards,” Milito said.
The legislation does not eliminate existing TWIC security requirements. Rather, it seeks to help eligible applicants begin preparing for the credentialing process before release and navigate existing appeal and waiver procedures.
Following House passage, the measure would need Senate approval before it could advance to the president for signature.
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