House Rep. introduces first C-TPAT reauthorization

U.S. Rep. Martha McSally, R-Ariz., has filed legislation that reauthorizes the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program for the first time in 11 years and aims to increase security and cut down wait times at ports of entry.    U.S. Rep. Martha McSally, R-Ariz., introduced legislation last Friday that aims to “increase security and cut down wait times at ports of entry,” according to a statement from McSally’s office.
   Co-sponsors of the bill (H.R. 3551), which reauthorizes the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program for the first time in its 11-year existence, include Reps David Reichert, R-Wash.; Michael McCaul, R-Texas; Peter King, R-N.Y.; Will Hurd, R-Texas; and Thomas Garrett, R-Va.
   McSally said it’s high time for the C-TPAT program “to be updated to reflect our modern global economy.”
   Established under the SAFE Port Act of 2006, the C-TPAT program is led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in an effort to improve the security of private companies’ supply chains against terrorist activities.
   Under the C-TPAT program, companies voluntarily partner with CBP to boost security across their supply chain, and CBP works with them to protect the supply chain, identify gaps, and implement specific security measures and best practices. After vetting the applicants, CBP visits their site to confirm the implementation of security criteria.
   The reauthorization bill “ensures that the program is updated to meet the dynamic threats currently facing the global supply chain and that C-TPAT participants receive tangible benefits for their partnership with CBP in ensuring a secure supply chain,” McSally’s office said.
   “Once companies prove they meet CBP security standards, they have shorter wait times and fewer inspections at ports of entry,” it added. “Pre-vetting companies helps streamline the process at these ports.”