Bill Introduced to Require Container Scanning and E-seals

The House Committee on Homeland Security said that Representative Thompson (D-MI), the new Committee Chair, introduced the Implementing the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007 (H.R. 1). This lengthy measure, if enacted, would mandate various security enhancements, including strengthening of the unified incident command system; altering the biometric border entry and exit system; establishment of a border intelligence fusion center program; broadening transportation security strategic planning; increasing participation of private sector organizations in emergency preparedness and response activities; and codifying the Proliferation Security Initiative. With regard to marine shipping containers, it would prohibit entry into the United States of containers that have not been scanned and secured with an approved seal. It would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to promptly establish a program for application of these requirements within 3 three years to any container loaded on a vessel destined for the United States in a country in which more than 75,000 TEU of containers were loaded on vessels for shipping to the United States in 2005. The requirement would be expanded to all other countries in 5 years. The implementation dates may be extended by up to one year if the Secretary determines that the required scanning equipment is not available. Source: HK Law