HR 4954 109th Congress

SAFE Port Act

Latest Action

Became Public Law No: 109-347.

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Summary

(This measure has not been amended since the Conference Report was filed in the House on September 29, 2006. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Security and Accountability For Every Port Act of 2006 or the SAFE Port Act - Title I: Security of United States Seaports - Subtitle A: General Provisions - (Sec. 101) Amends the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) to require area maritime transportation security plans to include a salvage response plan to identify equipment capable of restoring operational trade capacity and to ensure that waterways are cleared as quickly as possible after a maritime transportation security incident (defined as a security incident resulting in significant loss of life, environmental damage, transportation system disruption, or economic disruption in a particular area). (Sec. 102) Requires vessel and security plans under MTSA to regulate access by persons (including drayage companies) engaged in the surface transportation of intermodal containers in or out of a facility (i.e., a structure or facility of any kind located in, on, under, or adjacent to any waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction). Requires the submission of a new vessel and security plan after a change of ownership or operation of a facility. Requires U.S. citizenship for individuals implementing security actions for a facility, but allows a waiver of such requirement after a complete background check and review of terrorist watch lists. (Sec. 103) Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to verify, at least twice annually, the effectiveness of a vessel and facility security plan, with at least one of the inspections to be unannounced. (Sec. 104) Imposes additional requirements under MTSA for issuing transportation security cards, including requiring the Secretary to: (1) establish a priority for each U.S. port based on risk; (2) implement the transportation security card program at all U.S. ports not later than January 1, 2009; and (3) process all applications for transportation security cards for individuals with current and valid merchant mariners' documents by January 1, 2009. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a pilot program to test transportation security card readers at secure areas of the marine transportation system; (2) issue regulations to require the deployment of such card readers; (3) make a comprehensive report to Congress on the pilot program; and (4) promulgate final regulations for issuing such cards by January 1, 2007. (Sec. 105) Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on redundancies and inefficiencies in connection with background records checks for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). (Sec. 106) Requires the Secretary to disqualify any individual found guilty (or not guilty by reason of insanity) of a felony involving treason, espionage, sedition, or any crime of terrorism (including a conspiracy to commit such crimes) from applying for a transportation security card. (Sec. 107) Establishes a deadline of April 1, 2007, for the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating (department Secretary) to implement a long-range vessel tracking system. Authorizes the Secretary to issue regulations to establish a voluntary long-range automated vessel tracking system prior to the issuance of final regulations for such system. (Sec. 108) Directs the department Secretary to establish interagency operational centers for port security at all high-risk priority ports not later than three years after enactment of this Act. Describes required characteristics. Designates the Coast Guard Captain of the Port in an operational center as the incident commander in the event of a transportation security incident. Requires the Secretary to submit to Congress a budget and cost-sharing analysis for such operational centers. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. (Sec. 109) Directs the department Secretary, not later than 180 days after enactment, to update and finalize the rulemaking on notice of arrival for foreign vessels on the Outer Continental Shelf. (Sec. 110) Establishes a deadline of one year after enactment for implementation of identification requirements for crewmembers on vessels calling at U.S. ports. Subtitle B: Port Security Grants; Training and Exercise Programs - (Sec. 111) Requires the department Secretary to make available a risk assessment tool that uses standardized risk criteria for updating area maritime security plans and for applying for port security grants. (Sec. 112) Requires the allocation of port security grants based on risk. Limits the use of grant funds for construction costs. Expands eligible costs under such grant program to include: (1) training exercises relating to terrorism prevention or recovery; (2) sharing of terrorism threat information; and (3) equipment costs for storing classified information. Allows funding for multi-year port security projects. Requires the department Secretary to report to Congress on the methodology for allocating port security grant funds based on risk. Authorizes appropriations for port security grants for FY2007-FY2011. Modifies the criteria for administering the port security grant program to include risk assessment. (Sec. 113) Requires the Secretary to establish a Port Security Training Program to assist facilities to submit a plan to prevent, prepare for, respond to, mitigate against, and recover from acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies. (Sec. 114) Requires the Secretary to establish a Port Security Exercise Program to test and evaluate the capabilities of governments, commercial seaport personnel and management, emergency response providers, the private sector, and other entities to prevent, prepare for, mitigate against, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies at commercial seaports. (Sec. 115) Requires the department Secretary to require high risk port facilities to conduct at least once every two years live or full-scale exercises to test and evaluate federal, state, and local capabilities to respond to and recover from threats at commercial seaports. Subtitle C: Port Operations - (Sec. 121) Requires, not later than December 31, 2007, all containers entering high volume U.S. ports by vessel to be scanned for radiation. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop a strategy for the deployment of radiation detection capabilities; (2) submit such strategy to Congress within 90 days after enactment; (3) report to Congress on the feasibility of and strategy for the development of equipment to detect and prevent shielded nuclear and radiological threat material and chemical, biological, and other weapons of mass destruction from entering the United States; (4) publish technical capability standards and recommended standard operating procedures for the use of nonintrusive imaging and radiation detection equipment in the United States; (5) fully implement the strategy for the deployment of radiation detection capabilities within three years after enactment; (6) expand such strategy to all other U.S. ports by December 31, 2008; and (7) establish an Intermodal Rail Radiation Detection Test Center. (Sec. 122) Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop a plan for the inspection of car ferries bound for a U.S. seaport; (2) develop and implement a plan for random searches of shipping containers; (3) implement a threat assessment screening for all port truck drivers with access to secure areas of a port; and (4) establish at least one Border Patrol unit for the U.S. Virgin Islands and report to Congress on the schedule for establishing such unit. (Sec. 124) Excludes work stoppages or employee-related actions not related to terrorism from the definition of "economic disruption" resulting from a transportation security incident. (Sec. 127) Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the impact of implementing requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to certain commercial vessels operating exclusively between the territorial waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. (Sec. 128) Requires the Secretary to establish a university-based Center for Excellence for Maritime Domain Awareness. Title II: Security of the International Supply Chain - Subtitle A: General Provisions - (Sec. 201) Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop, implement, and update a strategic plan to enhance the security of the international supply chain (defined as the end-to-end process for shipping goods to or from the United States beginning at the point of origin through a point of distribution to the destination); and (2) submit an interim and final report to Congress for such plan. Specifies requirements for the strategic plan. (Sec. 202) Requires the Secretary to develop and update protocols for the resumption of trade after a transportation security incident. (Sec. 203) Requires the Secretary to: (1) issue regulations for collecting data elements for improved high-risk targeting of cargo imported into the United States prior to loading on vessels at foreign seaports; and (2) take certain actions to improve the effectiveness and capabilities of the Automated Targeting System. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010 for the Automated Targeting System. (Sec. 204) Requires the Secretary to: (1) initiate, not later than 90 days after enactment, rulemaking proceedings to establish minimum standards and procedures for securing containers in transit to the United States; and (2) issue, not later than 180 days after enactment, an interim final rule for securing such containers. Requires all such containers to meet security standards and procedures not later than two years after enactment. (Sec. 205) Directs the Secretary to establish and implement a Container Security Initiative (CSI) to identify and examine or search maritime containers that pose a security risk before loading in a foreign port for shipment to the United States. Requires the Secretary to issue a "do not load" order to prevent the onload of cargo at a port designated under CSI that has been identified as high risk. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the effectiveness (and need for improvements) of the CSI by September 30, 2007, and by September 30, 2010. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010 to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to carry out the CSI. Subtitle B: Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism - (Sec. 211) Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (Commissioner), to establish the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), as a voluntary government-private sector program to strengthen and improve the overall security of the international supply chain and U.S. border security and to facilitate the movement of secure cargo. Requires the Secretary to review the minimum security requirements of C-TPAT at least once a year. (Sec. 212) Allows importers, customs brokers, forwarders, air, sea, and land carriers, contract logistics providers, and other entities in the international supply chain and intermodal transportation system to apply for participation in C-TPAT. (Sec. 213) Specifies minimum requirements for participation in C-TPAT. (Sec. 214) Sets forth benefits available to Tier I, Tier II, and Tier III participants in C-TPAT and criteria for validating participants. (Sec. 217) Allows the Commissioner to deny benefits to C-TPAT participants who fail to meet specified requirements or who provide false or misleading information. Allows a C-TPAT participant to appeal a denial of benefits. (Sec. 218) Requires the Secretary to develop and implement: (1) a one-year pilot program for using third party entities to conduct validations of C-TPAT participants; and (2) a revalidation process for Tier 2 and Tier 3 C-TPAT participants. (Sec. 220) Requires the Secretary to consider importers of noncontainerized cargoes for participation in C-TPAT. (Sec. 221) Requires the Secretary to establish management controls for the C-TPAT program, including a five-year plan to identify outcome-based goals and performance measures. (Sec. 222) Directs the Commissioner to increase in FY2008 and FY2009 by not less than 50 the number of full-time personnel engaged in the validation and revalidation of C-TPAT participants. (Sec. 223) Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010 for C-TPAT and for FY2008-FY2012 for additional personnel to validate and revalidate C-TPAT participants. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Provisions - (Sec. 231) Requires the Secretary to: (1) designate three foreign seaports with unique features and differing levels of trade volume for purposes of establishing pilot integrated scanning systems at such seaports; (2) acquire radiation detection equipment through the Department of Energy, the private sector, or host governments; (3) achieve a full-scale implementation of such scanning system at such seaports not later than one year after enactment; and (4) report to Congress on such scanning system. (Sec. 232) Requires the Secretary to: (1) ensure that all incoming cargo containers are screened to identify high-risk containers and that all high-risk containers are scanned or searched; and (2) report to Congress on the status of full-scale implementation of integrated scanning systems for cargo containers. (Sec. 233) Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance to facilitate the implementation of supply chain security measures at ports designated under the Container Security Initiative. Requires the Secretary to identify assistance programs that could facilitate implementation of port security antiterrorism measures in foreign countries and U.S. territories, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, with particular emphasis on ports in the Caribbean Basin. Requires the Comptroller General to report to Congress on the security of ports in the Caribbean Basin. (Sec. 234) Requires the Secretary to reassess the effectiveness of antiterrorism measures maintained at ports not less than once every three years. (Sec. 235) Directs the Secretary to conduct a one-year pilot program to improve the security of empty containers at U.S. seaports (Sec. 236) Requires the Secretary to develop a system to collect risk information related to the supply chain with private sector entities. Title III: Administration - (Sec. 301) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) an Office of Cargo Security Policy to coordinate all DHS policies relating to cargo security and to consult with stakeholders and coordinate with other federal agencies in establishing standards and regulations and to promote best practices. Sets forth the responsibilities of the Director of such Office. Requires the Secretary of State to designate a liaison office to assist in negotiating cargo security-related international agreements. (Sec. 302) Extends until December 31, 2008, the the Homeland Security Science and Technology Advisory Committee. Requires the Under Secretary for Science and Technology of DHS to utilize the Committee to provide outside expertise in advancing cargo security technology. (Sec. 303) Requires the Secretary to direct, coordinate, and evaluate research, development, testing, and evaluation efforts in furtherance of maritime and cargo security. Title IV: Agency Resources and Oversight - (Sec. 401) Requires the Secretary to designate a senior official in DHS to coordinate and report to Congress on DHS trade and customs revenue functions. Establishes a Director of Trade Policy in DHS to advise on all aspects of DHS policies relating to trade and customs revenue functions. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on DHS obligations under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 with respect to the maintenance of custom revenue functions. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the maintenance of DHS custom revenue functions, on DHS actions that will have a major impact on trade and customs revenue functions or of any reorganization of customs revenue functions, and on any reorganization. (Sec. 402) Establishes in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection an Office of International Trade, to be headed by an Assistant Commissioner. Requires the transfer of the assets, functions, and personnel of the Office of Strategic Trade and the Office of Regulations and Rulings to the Office of International Trade. Authorizes the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to transfer any assets, functions, or personnel to such Office after giving notice to specified congressional committees. Requires the Commissioner to establish an International Trade Committee to advise the Commissioner on commercial customs and trade facilitation functions. Requires the Committee to report to Congress on its activities. (Sec. 403) Requires the Commissioner to prepare and submit to Congress by June 30, 2007, and biennially thereafter a Resource Allocation Model to determine the optimal staffing levels to carry out the commercial operations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Requires such Model to provide for the hiring of a minimum of 200 additional customs and border protection officers in FY2008-FY2012. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Commissioner to report to Congress on resources directed to commercial and trade facilitation functions within the Office of Field Operations. (Sec. 404) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require the Secretary, the U.S. Trade Representative, and other appropriate federal officials to work through certain international organizations to align customs requirements to facilitate the efficient flow of international trade. Requires the U.S. Trade Representative to seek certain commitments in negotiations in the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the articles of GATT 1944. Requires the Secretary to work with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to facilitate the efficient flow of international trade. (Sec. 405) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require the Secretary of the Treasury to establish an electronic trade data interchange system, to be known as the International Trade Data System (ITDS), to eliminate redundant information requirements, regulate the flow of commerce, and enforce laws relating to international trade by establishing a single portal system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Requires all federal agencies that require documentation for clearing or licensing the importation and exportation of cargo to participate in ITDS. Establishes an Interagency Steering Committee to assist the Secretary in overseeing the implementation of, and participation in, ITDS. Requires the President to report to Congress on ITDS before the end of each fiscal year. Expresses the sense of Congress that federal agency participation in ITDS is an important priority of the federal government. (Sec. 406) Requires the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to report to Congress not later than June 30, 2007, on various matters relating to in-bond cargo. (Sec. 407) Expresses the sense of the Senate that nothing in this Act relating to port security grants and training programs, domestic radiation detection, and security of the international supply chain shall be construed to affect the jurisdiction of any standing committee of the Senate. Title V: Domestic Nuclear Detection Office - (Sec. 501) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish in DHS a Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, to be headed by a presidentially-appointed Director. Makes such Office responsible for the coordination of federal efforts to detect and protect against the unauthorized importation, possession, storage, transportation, development, or use of a nuclear explosive device, fissile material, or radiological material in the United States. (Sec. 502) Requires the Secretary, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National Intelligence to submit to Congress a research and development investment strategy for nuclear and radiological detection not later than one year after enactment. Requires a joint annual report to Congress by the Director of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office and the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology on nuclear and radiological detection activities related to counterterrorism measures required under the Homeland Security Act of 2002. Title VI: Commercial Mobile Service Alerts - Warning, Alert, and Response Network Act - (Sec. 602) Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to adopt technical requirements for commercial mobile service alerts. (Sec. 603) Provides for the establishment of the Commercial Mobile Service Alert Advisory Committee. Requires the Advisory Committee to submit to the FCC recommendations to assist commercial mobile service providers in providing emergency alerts to their subscribers. (Sec. 604) Requires the Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Science and Technology to establish a research, development, testing, and evaluation program to support the development of technologies to increase the number of commercial mobile service devices that can receive emergency alerts. (Sec. 605) Requires the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to establish a grant program to provide for outdoor alerting technologies in remote communities to enable residents of such communities to receive emergency alerts. (Sec. 606) Provides for additional funding for commercial mobile service alerts under this title from the Digital Transition and Public Safety Fund. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to compensate broadcast station licensees for reasonable costs incurred in complying with requirements under this title. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to borrow up to $106 million from the Treasury to implement commercial mobile service alerts under this title. (Sec. 607) Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to: (1) define "essential service provider" as a municipal, nonprofit, or private,for profit entity that provides telecommunications service, electrical power, natural gas, water and sewer services, or any other essential service (as determined by the President): (2) increase community disaster loans; (3) increase the federal share of relocating a public building destroyed by a disaster; (4) expedite disaster relief payments for debris removal; and (5) require the head of a federal agency involved in disaster relief to formulate requirements for the use of local contractors for disaster relief services. (Sec. 612) Assigns, as of April 1, 2007, responsibility for the radiological emergency preparedness program and the chemical stockpile emergency preparedness program to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). (Sec. 613) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to revise the definition of "emergency response provider" to include governmental and nongovernmental agencies. Title VII: Other Matters - (Sec. 701) Requires the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for Transportation Security to submit to Congress a security plan for essential air service and small community airports. (Sec. 702) Requires each state or local government that receives a DHS grant to report to the Secretary on all expenditures of grant funds. (Sec. 703) Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations to implement certain recommendations of the Department of Transportation Inspector General relating to trucking security. (Sec. 704) Authorizes appropriations for the Northern Border Air Wing Branch in Great Falls, Montana. (Sec. 705) Allows foreign-flag vessels to be employed for the movement or transportation of anchors in the Beaufort Sea. (Sec. 706) Establishes December 31, 2009, as the conveyance date for certain U.S. Coast Guard property in Portland, Maine. (Sec. 707) Requires the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner to: (1) establish performance indicators relating to the seizure of methamphetamine and precursor chemicals; (2) study the movement of such drugs into the United States; and (3) submit to Congress a comprehensive summary of such study and describe how the U.S. Customs and Border Protection used such study to target shipments presenting a high risk for drug smuggling or circumvention of the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005. (Sec. 708) Directs the Comptroller General to access and report to specified congressional committees on the status and implementation of the aircraft charter customer and lessee prescreening program and the use of such program by the general aviation charter and rental community. (Sec. 709) Authorizes the President to carry out a program for the coordination of activities relating to the health and safety of individuals exposed to harmful substances during a disaster. Requires the President to report on programs and studies relating to health and safety during a disaster. Requires the Secretary, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to enter into a contract jointly with the National Academy of Sciences to study and report on disaster area health and environmental protection and monitoring. Requires such report to provide advice and recommendations on protecting the health and safety of individuals exposed to potentially harmful substances released during a disaster. Authorizes appropriations. Title VIII: Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement - Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 - (Sec. 802) Defines "bets and wagers" for purposes of this Act to include bets for contests, sporting events, games predominantly subject to chance, and lotteries. Excludes from such definition: (1) activities governed by securities laws: (2) transactions under the Commodity Exchange Act; (3) over-the-counter derivative instruments; (4) contracts of indemnity or guarantee; (5) any contract for insurance; (6) any deposit or other transaction with an insured depository institution; and (7) reward programs or games conducted by businesses for promotional purposes. Declares that nothing in this Act may be construed to prohibit any activity allowed under the Interstate Horseracing Act, to preempt any state law prohibiting gambling, or to affect the application of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that this Act does not address the legality of certain horse racing activities under federal law. Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit persons engaged in the business of betting or wagering from knowingly accepting credit, or the proceeds of credit, electronic fund transfers, checks, drafts, or similar financial instruments or the proceeds of any other financial transaction in connection with unlawful Internet gambling (this prohibition is defined by this Act as a "restricted transaction"). Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to five years for violations. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to prescribe regulations to identify and block restricted transactions. Grants immunity from civil liability for blocking a restricted transaction or one which is reasonably believed to be a restricted transaction. Grants U.S. district courts original and exclusive jurisdiction to prevent and restrain restricted transactions and to enter a permanent injunction against individuals convicted of accepting financial instruments for unlawful Internet gambling. Authorizes the Attorney General or any state attorney general to institute proceedings to prevent or restrain a restricted transaction. (Sec. 803) Calls upon the U.S. government, in deliberations with foreign governments, to: (1) encourage cooperation by foreign governments in identifying whether Internet gambling operations are being used for money laundering, corruption, or other crimes; (2) advance policies that promote international cooperation in enforcing this Act; and (3) encourage the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering to study the extent to which Internet gambling operations are being used for money laundering purposes. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report to Congress annually on deliberations between the United States and other countries on Internet gambling.
Security and Accountability For Every Port Act of 2006 or the SAFE Port Act - Title I: Security of United States Seaports - Subtitle A: General Provisions - (Sec. 101) Amends the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) to require area maritime transportation security plans to include a salvage response plan to identify equipment capable of restoring operational trade capacity and to ensure that waterways are cleared as quickly as possible after a maritime transportation security incident (defined as a security incident resulting in significant loss of life, environmental damage, transportation system disruption, or economic disruption in a particular area). (Sec. 102) Requires vessel and security plans under MTSA to regulate access by persons (including drayage companies) engaged in the surface transportation of intermodal containers in or out of a facility (i.e., a structure or facility of any kind located in, on, under, or adjacent to any waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction). Requires the submission of a new vessel and security plan after a change of ownership or operation of a facility. Requires U.S. citizenship for individuals implementing security actions for a facility, but allows a waiver of such requirement after a complete background check and review of terrorist watch lists. (Sec. 103) Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to verify, at least twice annually, the effectiveness of a vessel and facility security plan, with at least one of the inspections to be unannounced. (Sec. 104) Imposes additional requirements under MTSA for issuing transportation security cards, including requiring the Secretary to: (1) establish a priority for each U.S. port based on risk; (2) implement the transportation security card program at all U.S. ports not later than January 1, 2009; and (3) process all applications for transportation security cards for individuals with current and valid merchant mariners' documents by January 1, 2009. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a pilot program to test transportation security card readers at secure areas of the marine transportation system; (2) issue regulations to require the deployment of such card readers; (3) make a comprehensive report to Congress on the pilot program; and (4) promulgate final regulations for issuing such cards by January 1, 2007. (Sec. 105) Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on redundancies and inefficiencies in connection with background records checks for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). (Sec. 106) Requires the Secretary to disqualify any individual found guilty (or not guilty by reason of insanity) of a felony involving treason, espionage, sedition, or any crime of terrorism (including a conspiracy to commit such crimes) from applying for a transportation security card. (Sec. 107) Establishes a deadline of April 1, 2007, for the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating (department Secretary) to implement a long-range vessel tracking system. Authorizes the Secretary to issue regulations to establish a voluntary long-range automated vessel tracking system prior to the issuance of final regulations for such system. (Sec. 108) Directs the department Secretary to establish interagency operational centers for port security at all high-risk priority ports not later than three years after enactment of this Act. Describes required characteristics. Designates the Coast Guard Captain of the Port in an operational center as the incident commander in the event of a transportation security incident. Requires the Secretary to submit to Congress a budget and cost-sharing analysis for such operational centers. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. (Sec. 109) Directs the department Secretary, not later than 180 days after enactment, to update and finalize the rulemaking on notice of arrival for foreign vessels on the Outer Continental Shelf. (Sec. 110) Establishes a deadline of one year after enactment for implementation of identification requirements for crewmembers on vessels calling at U.S. ports. Subtitle B: Port Security Grants; Training and Exercise Programs - (Sec. 111) Requires the department Secretary to make available a risk assessment tool that uses standardized risk criteria for updating area maritime security plans and for applying for port security grants. (Sec. 112) Requires the allocation of port security grants based on risk. Limits the use of grant funds for construction costs. Expands eligible costs under such grant program to include: (1) training exercises relating to terrorism prevention or recovery; (2) sharing of terrorism threat information; and (3) equipment costs for storing classified information. Allows funding for multi-year port security projects. Requires the department Secretary to report to Congress on the methodology for allocating port security grant funds based on risk. Authorizes appropriations for port security grants for FY2007-FY2011. Modifies the criteria for administering the port security grant program to include risk assessment. (Sec. 113) Requires the Secretary to establish a Port Security Training Program to assist facilities to submit a plan to prevent, prepare for, respond to, mitigate against, and recover from acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies. (Sec. 114) Requires the Secretary to establish a Port Security Exercise Program to test and evaluate the capabilities of governments, commercial seaport personnel and management, emergency response providers, the private sector, and other entities to prevent, prepare for, mitigate against, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies at commercial seaports. (Sec. 115) Requires the department Secretary to require high risk port facilities to conduct at least once every two years live or full-scale exercises to test and evaluate federal, state, and local capabilities to respond to and recover from threats at commercial seaports. Subtitle C: Port Operations - (Sec. 121) Requires, not later than December 31, 2007, all containers entering high volume U.S. ports by vessel to be scanned for radiation. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop a strategy for the deployment of radiation detection capabilities; (2) submit such strategy to Congress within 90 days after enactment; (3) report to Congress on the feasibility of and strategy for the development of equipment to detect and prevent shielded nuclear and radiological threat material and chemical, biological, and other weapons of mass destruction from entering the United States; (4) publish technical capability standards and recommended standard operating procedures for the use of nonintrusive imaging and radiation detection equipment in the United States; (5) fully implement the strategy for the deployment of radiation detection capabilities within three years after enactment; (6) expand such strategy to all other U.S. ports by December 31, 2008; and (7) establish an Intermodal Rail Radiation Detection Test Center. (Sec. 122) Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop a plan for the inspection of car ferries bound for a U.S. seaport; (2) develop and implement a plan for random searches of shipping containers; (3) implement a threat assessment screening for all port truck drivers with access to secure areas of a port; and (4) establish at least one Border Patrol unit for the U.S. Virgin Islands and report to Congress on the schedule for establishing such unit. (Sec. 124) Excludes work stoppages or employee-related actions not related to terrorism from the definition of "economic disruption" resulting from a transportation security incident. (Sec. 127) Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the impact of implementing requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to certain commercial vessels operating exclusively between the territorial waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. (Sec. 128) Requires the Secretary to establish a university-based Center for Excellence for Maritime Domain Awareness. Title II: Security of the International Supply Chain - Subtitle A: General Provisions - (Sec. 201) Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop, implement, and update a strategic plan to enhance the security of the international supply chain (defined as the end-to-end process for shipping goods to or from the United States beginning at the point of origin through a point of distribution to the destination); and (2) submit an interim and final report to Congress for such plan. Specifies requirements for the strategic plan. (Sec. 202) Requires the Secretary to develop and update protocols for the resumption of trade after a transportation security incident. (Sec. 203) Requires the Secretary to: (1) issue regulations for collecting data elements for improved high-risk targeting of cargo imported into the United States prior to loading on vessels at foreign seaports; and (2) take certain actions to improve the effectiveness and capabilities of the Automated Targeting System. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010 for the Automated Targeting System. (Sec. 204) Requires the Secretary to: (1) initiate, not later than 90 days after enactment, rulemaking proceedings to establish minimum standards and procedures for securing containers in transit to the United States; and (2) issue, not later than 180 days after enactment, an interim final rule for securing such containers. Requires all such containers to meet security standards and procedures not later than two years after enactment. (Sec. 205) Directs the Secretary to establish and implement a Container Security Initiative (CSI) to identify and examine or search maritime containers that pose a security risk before loading in a foreign port for shipment to the United States. Requires the Secretary to issue a "do not load" order to prevent the onload of cargo at a port designated under CSI that has been identified as high risk. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the effectiveness (and need for improvements) of the CSI by September 30, 2007, and by September 30, 2010. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010 to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to carry out the CSI. Subtitle B: Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism - (Sec. 211) Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (Commissioner), to establish the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), as a voluntary government-private sector program to strengthen and improve the overall security of the international supply chain and U.S. border security and to facilitate the movement of secure cargo. Requires the Secretary to review the minimum security requirements of C-TPAT at least once a year. (Sec. 212) Allows importers, customs brokers, forwarders, air, sea, and land carriers, contract logistics providers, and other entities in the international supply chain and intermodal transportation system to apply for participation in C-TPAT. (Sec. 213) Specifies minimum requirements for participation in C-TPAT. (Sec. 214) Sets forth benefits available to Tier I, Tier II, and Tier III participants in C-TPAT and criteria for validating participants. (Sec. 217) Allows the Commissioner to deny benefits to C-TPAT participants who fail to meet specified requirements or who provide false or misleading information. Allows a C-TPAT participant to appeal a denial of benefits. (Sec. 218) Requires the Secretary to develop and implement: (1) a one-year pilot program for using third party entities to conduct validations of C-TPAT participants; and (2) a revalidation process for Tier 2 and Tier 3 C-TPAT participants. (Sec. 220) Requires the Secretary to consider importers of noncontainerized cargoes for participation in C-TPAT. (Sec. 221) Requires the Secretary to establish management controls for the C-TPAT program, including a five-year plan to identify outcome-based goals and performance measures. (Sec. 222) Directs the Commissioner to increase in FY2008 and FY2009 by not less than 50 the number of full-time personnel engaged in the validation and revalidation of C-TPAT participants. (Sec. 223) Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010 for C-TPAT and for FY2008-FY2012 for additional personnel to validate and revalidate C-TPAT participants. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Provisions - (Sec. 231) Requires the Secretary to: (1) designate three foreign seaports with unique features and differing levels of trade volume for purposes of establishing pilot integrated scanning systems at such seaports; (2) acquire radiation detection equipment through the Department of Energy, the private sector, or host governments; (3) achieve a full-scale implementation of such scanning system at such seaports not later than one year after enactment; and (4) report to Congress on such scanning system. (Sec. 232) Requires the Secretary to: (1) ensure that all incoming cargo containers are screened to identify high-risk containers and that all high-risk containers are scanned or searched; and (2) report to Congress on the status of full-scale implementation of integrated scanning systems for cargo containers. (Sec. 233) Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance to facilitate the implementation of supply chain security measures at ports designated under the Container Security Initiative. Requires the Secretary to identify assistance programs that could facilitate implementation of port security antiterrorism measures in foreign countries and U.S. territories, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, with particular emphasis on ports in the Caribbean Basin. Requires the Comptroller General to report to Congress on the security of ports in the Caribbean Basin. (Sec. 234) Requires the Secretary to reassess the effectiveness of antiterrorism measures maintained at ports not less than once every three years. (Sec. 235) Directs the Secretary to conduct a one-year pilot program to improve the security of empty containers at U.S. seaports (Sec. 236) Requires the Secretary to develop a system to collect risk information related to the supply chain with private sector entities. Title III: Administration - (Sec. 301) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) an Office of Cargo Security Policy to coordinate all DHS policies relating to cargo security and to consult with stakeholders and coordinate with other federal agencies in establishing standards and regulations and to promote best practices. Sets forth the responsibilities of the Director of such Office. Requires the Secretary of State to designate a liaison office to assist in negotiating cargo security-related international agreements. (Sec. 302) Extends until December 31, 2008, the the Homeland Security Science and Technology Advisory Committee. Requires the Under Secretary for Science and Technology of DHS to utilize the Committee to provide outside expertise in advancing cargo security technology. (Sec. 303) Requires the Secretary to direct, coordinate, and evaluate research, development, testing, and evaluation efforts in furtherance of maritime and cargo security. Title IV: Agency Resources and Oversight - (Sec. 401) Requires the Secretary to designate a senior official in DHS to coordinate and report to Congress on DHS trade and customs revenue functions. Establishes a Director of Trade Policy in DHS to advise on all aspects of DHS policies relating to trade and customs revenue functions. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to Congress on DHS obligations under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 with respect to the maintenance of custom revenue functions. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the maintenance of DHS custom revenue functions, on DHS actions that will have a major impact on trade and customs revenue functions or of any reorganization of customs revenue functions, and on any reorganization. (Sec. 402) Establishes in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection an Office of International Trade, to be headed by an Assistant Commissioner. Requires the transfer of the assets, functions, and personnel of the Office of Strategic Trade and the Office of Regulations and Rulings to the Office of International Trade. Authorizes the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to transfer any assets, functions, or personnel to such Office after giving notice to specified congressional committees. Requires the Commissioner to establish an International Trade Committee to advise the Commissioner on commercial customs and trade facilitation functions. Requires the Committee to report to Congress on its activities. (Sec. 403) Requires the Commissioner to prepare and submit to Congress by June 30, 2007, and biennially thereafter a Resource Allocation Model to determine the optimal staffing levels to carry out the commercial operations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Requires such Model to provide for the hiring of a minimum of 200 additional customs and border protection officers in FY2008-FY2012. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Commissioner to report to Congress on resources directed to commercial and trade facilitation functions within the Office of Field Operations. (Sec. 404) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require the Secretary, the U.S. Trade Representative, and other appropriate federal officials to work through certain international organizations to align customs requirements to facilitate the efficient flow of international trade. Requires the U.S. Trade Representative to seek certain commitments in negotiations in the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the articles of GATT 1944. Requires the Secretary to work with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to facilitate the efficient flow of international trade. (Sec. 405) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require the Secretary of the Treasury to establish an electronic trade data interchange system, to be known as the International Trade Data System (ITDS), to eliminate redundant information requirements, regulate the flow of commerce, and enforce laws relating to international trade by establishing a single portal system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Requires all federal agencies that require documentation for clearing or licensing the importation and exportation of cargo to participate in ITDS. Establishes an Interagency Steering Committee to assist the Secretary in overseeing the implementation of, and participation in, ITDS. Requires the President to report to Congress on ITDS before the end of each fiscal year. Expresses the sense of Congress that federal agency participation in ITDS is an important priority of the federal government. (Sec. 406) Requires the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to report to Congress not later than June 30, 2007, on various matters relating to in-bond cargo. (Sec. 407) Expresses the sense of the Senate that nothing in this Act relating to port security grants and training programs, domestic radiation detection, and security of the international supply chain shall be construed to affect the jurisdiction of any standing committee of the Senate. Title V: Domestic Nuclear Detection Office - (Sec. 501) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish in DHS a Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, to be headed by a presidentially-appointed Director. Makes such Office responsible for the coordination of federal efforts to detect and protect against the unauthorized importation, possession, storage, transportation, development, or use of a nuclear explosive device, fissile material, or radiological material in the United States. (Sec. 502) Requires the Secretary, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National Intelligence to submit to Congress a research and development investment strategy for nuclear and radiological detection not later than one year after enactment. Requires a joint annual report to Congress by the Director of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office and the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology on nuclear and radiological detection activities related to counterterrorism measures required under the Homeland Security Act of 2002. Title VI: Commercial Mobile Service Alerts - Warning, Alert, and Response Network Act - (Sec. 602) Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to adopt technical requirements for commercial mobile service alerts. (Sec. 603) Provides for the establishment of the Commercial Mobile Service Alert Advisory Committee. Requires the Advisory Committee to submit to the FCC recommendations to assist commercial mobile service providers in providing emergency alerts to their subscribers. (Sec. 604) Requires the Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Science and Technology to establish a research, development, testing, and evaluation program to support the development of technologies to increase the number of commercial mobile service devices that can receive emergency alerts. (Sec. 605) Requires the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to establish a grant program to provide for outdoor alerting technologies in remote communities to enable residents of such communities to receive emergency alerts. (Sec. 606) Provides for additional funding for commercial mobile service alerts under this title from the Digital Transition and Public Safety Fund. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to compensate broadcast station licensees for reasonable costs incurred in complying with requirements under this title. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to borrow up to $106 million from the Treasury to implement commercial mobile service alerts under this title. (Sec. 607) Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to: (1) define "essential service provider" as a municipal, nonprofit, or private,for profit entity that provides telecommunications service, electrical power, natural gas, water and sewer services, or any other essential service (as determined by the President): (2) increase community disaster loans; (3) increase the federal share of relocating a public building destroyed by a disaster; (4) expedite disaster relief payments for debris removal; and (5) require the head of a federal agency involved in disaster relief to formulate requirements for the use of local contractors for disaster relief services. (Sec. 612) Assigns, as of April 1, 2007, responsibility for the radiological emergency preparedness program and the chemical stockpile emergency preparedness program to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). (Sec. 613) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to revise the definition of "emergency response provider" to include governmental and nongovernmental agencies. Title VII: Other Matters - (Sec. 701) Requires the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for Transportation Security to submit to Congress a security plan for essential air service and small community airports. (Sec. 702) Requires each state or local government that receives a DHS grant to report to the Secretary on all expenditures of grant funds. (Sec. 703) Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations to implement certain recommendations of the Department of Transportation Inspector General relating to trucking security. (Sec. 704) Authorizes appropriations for the Northern Border Air Wing Branch in Great Falls, Montana. (Sec. 705) Allows foreign-flag vessels to be employed for the movement or transportation of anchors in the Beaufort Sea. (Sec. 706) Establishes December 31, 2009, as the conveyance date for certain U.S. Coast Guard property in Portland, Maine. (Sec. 707) Requires the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner to: (1) establish performance indicators relating to the seizure of methamphetamine and precursor chemicals; (2) study the movement of such drugs into the United States; and (3) submit to Congress a comprehensive summary of such study and describe how the U.S. Customs and Border Protection used such study to target shipments presenting a high risk for drug smuggling or circumvention of the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005. (Sec. 708) Directs the Comptroller General to access and report to specified congressional committees on the status and implementation of the aircraft charter customer and lessee prescreening program and the use of such program by the general aviation charter and rental community. (Sec. 709) Authorizes the President to carry out a program for the coordination of activities relating to the health and safety of individuals exposed to harmful substances during a disaster. Requires the President to report on programs and studies relating to health and safety during a disaster. Requires the Secretary, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to enter into a contract jointly with the National Academy of Sciences to study and report on disaster area health and environmental protection and monitoring. Requires such report to provide advice and recommendations on protecting the health and safety of individuals exposed to potentially harmful substances released during a disaster. Authorizes appropriations. Title VIII: Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement - Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 - (Sec. 802) Defines "bets and wagers" for purposes of this Act to include bets for contests, sporting events, games predominantly subject to chance, and lotteries. Excludes from such definition: (1) activities governed by securities laws: (2) transactions under the Commodity Exchange Act; (3) over-the-counter derivative instruments; (4) contracts of indemnity or guarantee; (5) any contract for insurance; (6) any deposit or other transaction with an insured depository institution; and (7) reward programs or games conducted by businesses for promotional purposes. Declares that nothing in this Act may be construed to prohibit any activity allowed under the Interstate Horseracing Act, to preempt any state law prohibiting gambling, or to affect the application of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that this Act does not address the legality of certain horse racing activities under federal law. Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit persons engaged in the business of betting or wagering from knowingly accepting credit, or the proceeds of credit, electronic fund transfers, checks, drafts, or similar financial instruments or the proceeds of any other financial transaction in connection with unlawful Internet gambling (this prohibition is defined by this Act as a "restricted transaction"). Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to five years for violations. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to prescribe regulations to identify and block restricted transactions. Grants immunity from civil liability for blocking a restricted transaction or one which is reasonably believed to be a restricted transaction. Grants U.S. district courts original and exclusive jurisdiction to prevent and restrain restricted transactions and to enter a permanent injunction against individuals convicted of accepting financial instruments for unlawful Internet gambling. Authorizes the Attorney General or any state attorney general to institute proceedings to prevent or restrain a restricted transaction. (Sec. 803) Calls upon the U.S. government, in deliberations with foreign governments, to: (1) encourage cooperation by foreign governments in identifying whether Internet gambling operations are being used for money laundering, corruption, or other crimes; (2) advance policies that promote international cooperation in enforcing this Act; and (3) encourage the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering to study the extent to which Internet gambling operations are being used for money laundering purposes. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report to Congress annually on deliberations between the United States and other countries on Internet gambling.
Security and Accountability For Every Port Act or the SAFE Port Act - Title I: Security of United States Seaports - Subtitle A: General Provisions - (Sec. 101) Amends federal shipping law to revise the definition of a "transportation security incident" to exclude from such definition non-terrorist acts that are committed during a labor strike, demonstration, or other type of labor unrest. (Sec. 102) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to develop protocols for the resumption of trade in the event of a transportation security incident that necessitates the suspension of trade. (Sec. 103) Revises maritime facility security plan requirements to require such plan to be resubmitted to the Secretary for approval upon each change in the ownership or operator of the facility that may substantially affect the security of the facility. Requires an individual qualified to implement security actions for a maritime facility that the Secretary believes may be involved in a transportation security incident (other than a Department of Defense facility) to be a U.S. citizen. Permits the waiver of such requirement if there is a complete background check of the individual and such individual is not identified on any terrorist watchlists. Requires maritime facility security plans to include, among other things, provisions for controlling access by individuals engaged in the surface transportation of intermodal containers in or out of a port facility. (Sec. 104) Requires the Secretary to verify, at least twice annually, the effectiveness of a maritime facility security plan, with at least one of the inspections to be unannounced. (Sec. 105) Requires the phased-in issuance of biometric transportation security cards to individuals with access to secure areas of seaport facilities, starting with the first 25 facilities on the facility vulnerability assessment list. Requires the Secretary to: (1) compare each individual with unescorted access to a secure area of a seaport facility against terrorist watch lists to determine if the individual poses a threat; and (2) determine whether such individual may denied admission to, or removed from, the United States. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on individuals found to be on the terrorist watchlist or unlawfully present in the United States and actions taken. (Sec. 107) Directs the Secretary, no later than May 15, 2007, to require crewmembers on vessels that call on U.S. ports to carry and present on demand any identification the Secretary decides is necessary. (Sec. 108) Requires the Secretary to issue regulations that establish and implement a long-range vessel tracking system by not later than April 1, 2007. (Sec. 109) Establishes an integrated network of maritime security command centers at U.S. seaports and maritime regions to facilitate federal and state incident management and response to transportation security incidents. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. Subtitle B: Grant and Training Programs - (Sec. 111) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish a port security grant program to allocate federal assistance to U.S. seaports based on an assessment of risk and need. Sets forth grant requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. (Sec. 112) Establishes a Port Security Training Program and a Port Security Exercise Program to provide training to, and test and evaluate the capabilities of, federal, state, and local government officials, commercial seaport personnel and management, emergency response providers, populations of at-risk neighborhoods around seaports, and others to prevent and respond to threatened or actual acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies at commercial seaports. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop and promulgate national voluntary consensus standards for port security training under the Port Security Training Program; and (2) ensure that the Port Security Exercise Program consolidates all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) port security exercise programs, conducts periodic port security exercises at commercial seaports, and assists state and local governments and commercial seaports in designing, implementing, and evaluating such exercises. Requires maritime vessel and facility security plans to provide, among other things, a strategy and timeline for conducting training and periodic unannounced drillsfor persons on a vessel or at a facility to deter a transportation security incident or a substantial threat of such incident. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Provisions - (Sec. 121) Directs the Secretary to increase, by not less than 200, the number of positions for full-time active duty DHS port of entry inspection officers for FY2007-FY2012. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. (Sec. 123) Directs the Secretary to establish at least one Border Patrol unit for the U.S. Virgin Islands. (Sec. 124) Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on ownership and operation of U.S. seaports. (Sec. 125) Directs the Secretary to conduct a study, and report to Congress on, the adequacy of security operations at the 10 U.S. seaports that load and unload the largest amount of containers. (Sec. 126) Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on the impact of implementing certain requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act (relating to providing U.S. border officers with arrival and departure manifests) with respect to commercial vessels that are less than 300 gross tons that operate exclusively between the territorial waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. (Sec. 127) Directs the Secretary to establish a university-based Center for Excellence for Maritime Domain Awareness. Requires the Center to, among other things: (1) prioritize its activities based on the "National Plan to Improve Maritime Domain Awareness" published by the DHS in October 2005; and (2) provide educational, technical, and analytical assistance to federal agencies with responsibilities for maritime domain awareness (including the Coast Guard). (Sec. 128) Directs the Secretary to conduct a study, and report to Congress on, challenges to balancing the need for greater security while maintaining the efficient flow of trade at U.S. land ports. Title II: Security of the International Supply Chain - (Sec. 201) Directs the Secretary to develop and implement: (1) a strategic plan to enhance the security of the international supply chain; and (2) a plan for improving the Automated Targeting System for identifying high-risk containers moving through such supply chain. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. Directs the Secretary to establish minimum standards and verification procedures for securing containers in transit to the United States. Requires all containers bound for U.S. ports to meet such standards and procedures not later than two years after the establishment of such standards. Urges the Secretary to promote and establish international standards for the security of containers moving through the international supply chain. Authorizes the Secretary to establish and implement the Container Security Initiative (CSI) to identify and examine maritime containers that pose a risk for terrorism at foreign ports before they are shipped to the United States. Requires the Secretary to conduct an assessment, and notify Congress, before designating a foreign port under CSI. Requires the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the status of CSI. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. Directs the Secretary to develop a secure electronic data interchange system to collect from and share appropriate risk information related to securing the supply chain with private sector entities. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the voluntary Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) to strengthen and improve the overall security of the international supply chain and U.S. border security. Makes importers, brokers, forwarders, carriers, and other entities in the international supply chain and intermodal transportation system meeting specified minimum requirements eligible for partnerships with the Department of Homeland Security under C-TPAT. Establishes three tiers of benefits for C-TPAT participants, with limited benefits provided to tier one participants and the most benefits provided to tier three participants. Outlines benefits. Authorizes the Secretary to consider participation of importers of non-containerized cargoes in C-TPAT. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-2012. Directs the Secretary to: (1) direct research, development, test, and evaluation efforts in furtherance of maritime and cargo security, encourage the ingenuity of the private sector in developing and testing technologies and process innovations, and evaluate such technologies; and (2) avoid the duplification of such efforts funded by DHS and share the results of such efforts with other federal, state, and local agencies. Directs the Secretary to provide grants (as part of Operation Safe Commerce) to: (1) integrate nonintrusive imaging inspection and nuclear and radiological detection systems for containers, vessels, and vehicles; and (2) establish demonstration projects that further the security of the international supply chain, including refrigerated containers and noncontainerized cargo, through realtime, continuous tracking technology for special or high-risk container cargo that poses unusual potential for human or environmental harm. Requires the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the results of Operation Safe Commerce. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2012. (Sec. 202) Directs the Secretary, while maintaining the current layered, risk-based screening, scanning, and inspecting cargo at foreign ports bound for the United States in accordance with existing statutory provisions, to evaluate the development of nuclear and radiological detection systems and other inspection technologies for use at foreign seaports to increase the volume of containers scanned prior to loading on vessels bound for the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to refuse to accept containerized cargo from foreign ports that do not cooperate in the deployment of such proposed systems and technologies. (Sec. 203) Directs the President to establish and implement the International Trade Data System to increase the efficiency and security of import and export information collected and disseminated with respect to border security, trade, and public health and safety of international cargoes. (Sec. 204) Directs the Secretary to reassess the effectiveness of antiterrorism measures of foreign ports served by U.S. vessels, or from which foreign vessels depart for the United States, and any foreign port believed to be a security risk to international maritime commerce and of certain security procedures not less than every three years. (Sec. 205) Directs the Secretary to conduct a one-year pilot program to evaluate and improve the security of empty containers at U.S. seaports, to ensure the safe and secure delivery of cargo, and to prevent potential acts of terrorism involving such containers. (Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary to conduct a study, and report to Congress on, the merits of current container inspection pilot programs which include nuclear or radiological detection, non-intrusive imagery, and density scanning capabilities. (Sec. 207) Directs the Secretary to conduct a study assessing the activities of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's National Targeting Center and report the results and recommendations to Congress. (Sec. 208) Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot project at an overseas port similar to the Integrated Container Inspection System being tested at the port in Hong Kong. Title III: Directorate for Policy, Planning, and International Affairs - (Sec. 301) Establishes: (1) in DHS a Directorate for Policy, Planning, and International Affairs (Directorate), headed by the Under Secretary for Policy, who shall be appointed by the President; and (2) within the Directorate, an Office of International Affairs, headed by an Assistant Secretary, who shall be appointed by the President. Establishes other offices, including the Office of Policy, the Office of Strategic Plans, and the Office of the Private Sector. Provides for a Director of Cargo Security Policy and a Director of Trade Policy. Directs the Secretary and the Under Secretary for Policy to consult with representatives of the international trade business community, including seeking the advice and recommendations of the Commercial Operations Advisory Committee, on DHS policies and actions that have a significant impact on international trade and customs revenue functions. (Sec. 302) Directs the Comptroller General to conduct a study, and report to Congress on, the extent to which the DHS is meeting its obligations with respect to the maintenance of customs revenue functions. Title IV: Office of Domestic Nuclear Detection - (Sec. 401) Establishes in DHS a Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, headed by a Director of Domestic Nuclear Detection, who shall be appointed by the President. Declares that the purpose of the Office is to protect against the unauthorized importation, possession, storage, transportation, development, or use of a nuclear explosive device, fissile material, or radiological material against the United States. Requires the Director to: (1) administer all nuclear and radiological detection and prevention functions of DHS; (2) coordinate such administration with nuclear and radiological detection and prevention activities of other federal agencies; (3) coordinate the federal government's implementation of a global nuclear detection architecture; (4) carry out a research and development program to achieve improvements in detection capabilities for shielded and unshielded nuclear explosive devices and radiological dispersion devices; (5) carry out a program to test and evaluate technology for detecting nuclear explosive devices and fissile or radiological material; (6) develop and, subject to the availability of appropriations, execute a strategy for the acquisition and deployment of detection systems in order to implement DHS components of the global nuclear detection architecture; (7) continuously monitor detection information received from foreign and domestic detection systems to maintain a situational awareness of all nuclear threats; (8) perform all DHS research, development, and acquisition activities pertaining to forensic analysis and attribution of nuclear and radiological attacks; and (9) utilize classified and unclassified nuclear and radiological threat assessments in designing the global nuclear detection architecture. Sets forth certain reporting requirements. Establishes within the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office an Advisory Council on Nuclear Detection. Directs the President to establish an interagency coordination council to facilitate interagency cooperation in implementing this title. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007 and each subsequent fiscal year. (Sec. 402) Requires the Secretary to: (1) deploy nuclear and radiological detection systems at 22 U.S. seaports not later than September 30, 2007; and (2) submit to Congress a strategy for the deployment of such systems at all remaining U.S. seaports and a plan that details the health and safety impacts of such systems. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office of DHS, to initiate a pilot program to: (1) deploy and test the operational performance of next-generation radiation portal monitors at one or more U.S. seaports with a high-volume of containerized cargo; and (2) if such monitors meet specified standards, deploy such monitors at all such U.S. seaports to improve cargo screening capabilities not later than September 30, 2007. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on such monitors and to recommend alternative actions if such the monitors are found to be unfeasible, ineffective, or wasteful. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office of DHS, to work with appropriate federal departments and agencies to coordinate the installation of nuclear and radiological detection systems at foreign seaports.
Security and Accountability For Every Port Act or the SAFE Port Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop and implement a strategic plan to enhance the security of the maritime transportation system. Directs the Secretary to develop protocols for the resumption of trade in the event of a transportation security incident that necessitates the suspension of trade. Directs the Secretary to develop and implement a plan for improving the Automated Targeting System for identifying high-risk containers moving through the international supply chain. Requires states to submit to the Secretary biographic information on current and future employees who have access to secured areas of seaports and to compare such information against terrorist watch lists. Establishes in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) a Director of Cargo Security Policy to coordinate DHS cargo security policies and programs with other executive agencies relating to cargo security. Establishes minimum standards and verification procedures for securing containers in transit to an importer in the United States, including international standards for the security of containers moving through the international supply chain. Directs the Secretary to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a strategy for the deployment of radiation detection equipment at all ports of entry. Establishes the Container Security Initiative (CSI) to identify and examine maritime containers that pose a risk for terrorism at foreign ports before they are shipped to the United States. Establishes: (1) the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) to strengthen and improve the overall security of the international supply chain and U.S. border security; and (2) a third tier of C-TPAT (Greenlane) that offers additional benefits to validated C-TPAT participants that demonstrate a sustained commitment beyond the minimum requirements for participation in C-TPAT. Establishes a port security grant program to allocate federal assistance to U.S. ports on the basis of risk and need

Vote Result

Passed House

On agreeing to the conference report Agreed to by recorded vote: 409 - 2 (Roll no. 516).

Actions

2006-10-13T00:00:00

Became Public Law No: 109-347.

2006-10-13T00:00:00

Became Public Law No: 109-347.

2006-10-13T00:00:00

Signed by President.

2006-10-13T00:00:00

Signed by President.

2006-10-03T00:00:00

Presented to President.

2006-10-03T00:00:00

Presented to President.

2006-10-02T00:00:00

Message on Senate action sent to the House.

2006-09-30T00:00:00

Senate agreed to conference report by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR 9/29/2006 S10810-10817)

2006-09-30T00:00:00

Conference report agreed to in Senate: Senate agreed to conference report by Unanimous Consent.(consideration: CR 9/29/2006 S10810-10817)

2006-09-30T00:00:00

On agreeing to the conference report Agreed to by recorded vote: 409 - 2 (Roll no. 516).

2006-09-30T00:00:00

Motions to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

2006-09-30T00:00:00

Conference report agreed to in House: On agreeing to the conference report Agreed to by recorded vote: 409 - 2 (Roll no. 516).

2006-09-29T00:00:00

DEBATE - The House resumed debate on the conference report to accompany H.R. 4954. (consideration: CR H8020, H8026-8038, H8540-8569)

2006-09-29T00:00:00

DEBATE - The House proceeded with one hour of debate on the conference report to accompany H.R. 4954.

2006-09-29T00:00:00

Mr. King (NY) brought up conference report H. Rept. 109-711 for consideration under the provisions of H. Res. 1064. (consideration: CR H8020, H8026-8038)

2006-09-29T00:00:00

Rules Committee Resolution H. Res. 1064 Reported to House. Rule provides for consideration of the conference report to H.R. 4954. All points of order against the conference report and against its consideration are waived. The conference report shall be considered as read.

2006-09-29T00:00:00

Conference report H. Rept. 109-711 filed. (text of conference report: CR H8540-8569)

2006-09-29T00:00:00

Conference report filed: Conference report H. Rept. 109-711 filed.(text of conference report: CR H8540-8569)

2006-09-28T00:00:00

The Speaker appointed conferees - from the Committee on Ways and Means for consideration of secs. 102, 121, 201, 203 and 301 of the House bill, and secs. 201, 203, 304, 401-404, 407, and 1105 of the Senate amendment, and modifications committed to conference: Thomas, Shaw, and Rangel.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

The Speaker appointed conferees - from the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for consideration of secs. 101-104, 107-109, and 204 of the House bill, and secs. 101-104, 106-108, 111, 202, 232, 234, 235, 503, 507-512, 514, 517-519, Title VI, secs. 703, 902, 905, 906, 1103, 1104, 1107-1110, 1114, and 1115 of the Senate amendment, and modifications committed to conference: LoBiondo, Shuster, and Oberstar.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

The Speaker appointed conferees - from the Committee on Science for consideration of secs. 201 and 401 of the House bill, and secs. 111, 121, 302, 303, 305, 513, 607, 608, 706, 801, 802, and 1107 of the Senate amendment, and modifications committed to conference: Boehlert, Sodrel, and Melancon.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

The Speaker appointed conferees - from the Committee on Energy and Commerce for consideration of Titles VI and X and sec. 1104 of the Senate amendment, and modifications committed to conference: Barton (TX), Upton, and Dingell.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

The Speaker appointed conferees - from the Committee on Homeland Security for consideration of the House bill and the Senate amendment, and modifications committed to conference: King (NY), Young (AK), Lungren, Daniel E., Linder, Simmons, McCaul (TX), Reichert, Thompson (MS), Sanchez, Loretta, Markey, Harman, and Pascrell.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

On motion that the House instruct conferees Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 281 - 140 (Roll no. 500). (consideration: CR H7770-7775, H7850-7851; text: CR H7770-7775)

2006-09-28T00:00:00

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS - At the conclusion of the debate on the Thompson (MS) motion to insturct conferees, the Chair put the question on adoption of the motion and by voice vote announced noes had prevailed. Mr. Thompson (MS) demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the motion until later in the legislative day.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

The previous question was ordered without objection. (consideration: CR H7775)

2006-09-28T00:00:00

DEBATE - The House proceeded with one hour of debate on the Thompson (MS) motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 4954. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require managers on the part of the House to agree to the provisions contained of the Senate amendment relating to the Rail Security Act of 2006; the National Alert System; mass transit security; improved motor carrier, bus and hazardous material security; and specified Sections of Title XI.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

Mr. Thompson (MS) moved that the House instruct conferees.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

On motion that the House disagree to the Senate amendment, and agree to a conference Agreed to without objection.

2006-09-28T00:00:00

Mr. King (NY) asked unanimous consent that the House disagree to the Senate amendment, and agree to a conference.

2006-09-20T00:00:00

Message on Senate action sent to the House.

2006-09-19T00:00:00

Senate appointed conferee(s) Murray as an additional conferee.

2006-09-19T00:00:00

Senate appointed conferee(s) Shelby; Sarbanes from the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

2006-09-19T00:00:00

Senate appointed conferee(s) Grassley; Hatch; Baucus from the Committee on Finance.

2006-09-19T00:00:00

Senate appointed conferee(s) Stevens; Lott; Hutchison; Inouye; Lautenberg from the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

2006-09-19T00:00:00

Senate appointed conferee(s) Collins; Coleman; Bennett; Lieberman; Levin from the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

2006-09-19T00:00:00

Senate insisted on its amendment, requested a conference. (consideration: CR S9734)

2006-09-14T00:00:00

Passed Senate with an amendment by Yea-Nay Vote. 98 - 0. Record Vote Number: 249. (text: CR 9/20/2006 S9820-9847)

2006-09-14T00:00:00

Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate with an amendment by Yea-Nay Vote. 98 - 0. Record Vote Number: 249.(text: CR 9/20/2006 S9820-9847)

2006-09-14T00:00:00

Cloture on the bill invoked in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 98 - 0. Record Vote Number: 247. (consideration: CR S9586; text: CR S9586)

2006-09-14T00:00:00

Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S9582-9617)

2006-09-13T00:00:00

Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S9454-9501, S9567-9574)

2006-09-12T00:00:00

Cloture motion on the bill presented in Senate. (consideration: CR S9353; text: CR S9353)

2006-09-12T00:00:00

Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S9327-9353)

2006-09-11T00:00:00

Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S9287-9289)

2006-09-08T00:00:00

Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S9230-9240)

2006-09-07T00:00:00

Measure laid before Senate by unanimous consent. (consideration: CR S9098-9104)

2006-05-16T00:00:00

Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 432.

2006-05-15T00:00:00

Read the first time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under Read the First Time.

2006-05-08T00:00:00

Received in the Senate.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 421 - 2 (Roll no. 127).

2006-05-04T00:00:00

Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by recorded vote: 421 - 2 (Roll no. 127).

2006-05-04T00:00:00

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 202 - 222 (Roll no. 126).

2006-05-04T00:00:00

The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection. (consideration: CR H2152)

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Nadler motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with amendments which revamp the bill's requirements relating to entry of containers into the United States.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

Mr. Nadler moved to recommit with instructions to Homeland Security (Select). (consideration: CR H2150-2152; text: CR H2150-2151)

2006-05-04T00:00:00

The House adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union. (text: CR H2121-2135)

2006-05-04T00:00:00

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 4954.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Loretta Sanchez (CA) amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Flake (AZ) amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Weiner amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson-Lee (TX) amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Millender-McDonald amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Bass amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Shays amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Thompson (MS) amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hooley amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Ryun (KS) amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Cuellar amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Ruppersberger amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Ruppersberger amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Ruppersberger amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 789, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the King (NY) amendment.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

GENERAL DEBATE - The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 4954.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

The Speaker designated the Honorable Shelley Moore Capito to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 789 and Rule XVIII.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 4954 with 1 hour of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions except motion to recommit with or without instructions. Measure will be considered read. Specified amendments are in order.

2006-05-04T00:00:00

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 789. (consideration: CR H2107-2153)

2006-05-03T00:00:00

Rule H. Res. 789 passed House.

2006-05-02T00:00:00

Rules Committee Resolution H. Res. 789 Reported to House. Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 4954 with 1 hour of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions except motion to recommit with or without instructions. Measure will be considered read. Specified amendments are in order.

2006-05-01T00:00:00

Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 250.

2006-05-01T00:00:00

Committee on Transportation discharged.

2006-05-01T00:00:00

Committee on Transportation discharged.

2006-04-28T00:00:00

Referred sequentially to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for a period ending not later than May 1, 2006 for consideration of such provisions of the bill and amendment as fall within the jurisdiction of that committee pursuant to clause 1(r), rule X..

2006-04-28T00:00:00

Reported (Amended) by the Committee on 109-447, Part I.

2006-04-28T00:00:00

Reported (Amended) by the Committee on 109-447, Part I.

2006-04-26T00:00:00

Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

2006-04-26T00:00:00

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

2006-04-04T00:00:00

Committee Hearings Held.

2006-03-30T00:00:00

Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

2006-03-30T00:00:00

Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

2006-03-16T00:00:00

Subcommittee Hearings Held.

2006-03-15T00:00:00

Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity.

2006-03-14T00:00:00

Referred to the House Committee on Homeland Security.

2006-03-14T00:00:00

Introduced in House

2006-03-14T00:00:00

Introduced in House

Policy Areas

Emergency Management

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