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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

“The Middle East peace agreement is a sign of hope for the future and an end to the suffering too many Israeli and Palestinian families have endured. We celebrate the hostages who have been reunited with their families. I sincerely hope that this moment brings real change: that families in Gaza receive humanitarian aid, that the remains of Israeli hostages are returned to their loved ones, and that Hamas is fully disarmed. I’m not just praying for peace, I’m committed to working toward it, so that future generations can live with safety and dignity.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement as the Supreme Court hears oral arguments in Louisiana v. Callais — a landmark case that could determine whether one-third of Louisiana’s population, Black Louisianians, will continue to have an opportunity to elect representatives of their choice:

“Today’s arguments before the Supreme Court are about far more than lines on a map. They are about whether Louisiana will reflect the diversity of its people and ensure fair representation for all residents. Math is Math! Both the Middle District and the Fifth Circuit Court ruled that Louisiana must have two majority-minority districts. The bipartisan map enacted by the legislature honors those rulings.

“The creation of a second majority-minority district was not about race; it’s about fairness, compliance with federal law, and ensuring that Black voices in Louisiana are not silenced. The current map is the product of bipartisan compromise, legislative action, and judicial review. The Supreme Court has a duty to uphold the integrity of the Voting Rights Act and ensure that every Louisianian has a seat at the table.

“The Voting Rights Act is not a relic; it is a living promise that our democracy belongs to everyone. For nearly 200 years, Black Americans had virtually no representation in government. The Voting Rights Act, forged in the blood, was enacted to right that wrong. It remains as vital today as it was 60 years ago.

“The Supreme Court must uphold the Voting Rights Act and the current fair, lawful congressional map that reflects the people of Louisiana. The stakes are nothing less than the future of representative democracy in our state and our nation. We must not allow the erosion of this promise — not now, not in Louisiana, not anywhere, and not on our watch.”

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:

“I am deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of Susan ‘Zue’ Jernstedt, a New Orleans resident and veteran, along with other Americans and international activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla. I’m closely monitoring this situation and have made my office available to assist as we await further information.

“As I’ve consistently stated, nations have a responsibility to civilians, aid workers, and other noncombatants during military operations. These responsibilities go beyond the laws of war to include fundamental human rights, morality, and decency. That was the mission of these activists: to provide critical aid to the people of Gaza. I firmly stand with them in that mission.

“What is particularly disturbing is the report that Americans — including veterans and humanitarian workers — are being detained in maximum security facilities by a government that receives billions of dollars in U.S. support. This is unacceptable. The immediate release of all Americans captured must be demanded without hesitation. Our voices, especially those of our national leaders, must be unwavering in calling for their safe return home.

“Sue is quoted as saying, ‘it’s never too late to stand up for humanity.’ Let’s take a cue from her — and stand firmly, demand justice, call for an end to this humanitarian crisis, and insist that every American unjustly detained is returned safely and immediately.”

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 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement on the Republican government shutdown:

“I want to be crystal clear about why we are at risk of a government shutdown: Republicans control the House. Republicans control the Senate. Republicans control the White House. This shutdown is entirely of their making.

“While Democrats are here in Washington — ready, willing, and able to do the work of the American people — Republicans chose to skip town and let the government close its doors. Instead of negotiating in good faith or crafting a bipartisan agreement, they pushed through a reckless, partisan funding bill that guts health care, slashes essential services, and drives costs higher for working families.

“They had the power to stop this. They had the time. And they chose chaos.

“This is the biggest health care cut in American history. It’s not just irresponsible — it’s immoral. At a time when families are being crushed by the cost of living, Republicans have walked away from the table and walked away from their constituents.

“While House Republicans are on vacation, Democrats are on duty. We’re here, fighting tooth and nail to end this shutdown, restore government services, and protect the health care of everyday Americans.

“This shutdown isn’t just a political crisis — it’s a human one. People will lose access to care. Small towns will lose their hospitals. Patients will wait longer, pay more, and suffer because Republican leadership chose political games over people's lives.

“I’m not giving up. Democrats are fighting — today, tomorrow, and every single day — to reopen the government, bring relief to families, and defend the health care that every American deserves.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS), and Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) have introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through November 21, 2025, matching the program authorization extension that was included in the September House Continuing Resolution bill. This legislation was filed ahead of NFIP’s federal authorization expiration at 11:59 PM tonight, September 30, 2025.

"We cannot allow the dysfunction of government to punish everyday Americans by letting the National Flood Insurance Program lapse, leaving families and businesses without critical protection,” said Rep. Carter. “This program is not only vital to Louisiana but to communities across the nation that face the growing risk of flooding. I have consistently stressed, since filing a long-term reauthorization earlier this year, that NFIP authorizations should not be tied to contentious government funding battles that put homeowners in jeopardy. Instead, we must provide this program with long-term certainty so that Congress can focus on modernizing the NFIP and ensuring it remains affordable and accessible for everyone.”

Without action, a government shutdown would leave the NFIP in limbo, putting homeowners, small businesses, and entire communities at risk during the height of hurricane season and following the 20^th Anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

“The NFIP isn’t just a policy—it’s a critical safeguard for millions of families, homeowners, and businesses across the country,” said Rep. Ezell. “In Mississippi and other flood-prone areas, this program is often the only thing standing between families and financial devastation. Letting it lapse because of political brinkmanship in Washington would be reckless, irresponsible, and dangerous. A shutdown shouldn’t be allowed to jeopardize disaster recovery, delay home sales, or leave flood victims waiting for the help they desperately need. We must act now to protect our communities and ensure the NFIP remains strong and uninterrupted.”

“Once again this year, we have seen the devastating impacts of flooding in Texas,” said Rep. Fletcher. “It is critical that Congress works to protect communities across the country from the devastating impacts of flooding, and reauthorizing the NFIP is an important part of that effort.  If the NFIP lapses, Texans with flood insurance would be unable to renew their policies, leaving them vulnerable during hurricane season.  I am glad to work with my colleagues to prevent a costly lapse in our constituents’ access to flood insurance.”

While this reauthorization ensures short-term stability, it must pave the way for a long-term, comprehensive NFIP reform to modernize the program and strengthen it for future generations. Representative Carter filed the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authorization Extension Act in April to extend program authorization through December 31, 2026, and avoid the current situation where a government shutdown threatens NFIP authorization.

Background

The NFIP is a federal program managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that provides flood insurance to homeowners and businesses, aiming to reduce the financial impact of flooding. The program is vital for Louisiana, a state with extensive low-lying areas and frequent exposure to hurricanes and heavy rainfall. The NFIP helps protect residents from devastating financial losses due to flood damage, encourages responsible development in flood-prone areas, and supports rebuilding efforts after disasters—making it a critical safety net for Louisiana’s communities.

Since the end of Fiscal Year 2017, Congress has passed 33 short-term NFIP authorization extensions, which have been attached to contentious government funding bills. Had Congress not been able to pass a government funding bill, not only would the government shut down, but the NFIP program's authorization would have also lapsed. A lapse in the program’s authorization means new policies could not be issued, existing policies could not be renewed, and real estate transactions in flood-prone areas may stall, leaving homeowners and businesses vulnerable.

A lapse in authorization also delays claims payments, increases reliance on taxpayer-funded disaster aid, and creates market instability. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a lapse of NFIP could impact 1,360 home sale closings daily, translating to approximately 41,300 affected monthly transactions nationwide. By extending the program through December 31, 2026, this legislation ensures that Americans are not left in limbo and gives Congress the necessary time to work toward bipartisan solutions that strengthen and modernize the program.

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, affecting communities in every state. The NFIP is a lifeline for over five million policyholders, helping them recover and rebuild after disasters.

Full bill text can be found here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

“It has been widely reported that the President has canceled a critical meeting to address the looming shutdown. Make no mistake: a government shutdown would be devastating for the people of Louisiana and for federal workers across this country who serve with honor every day.

“Republicans are playing a reckless game with people’s lives. Canceling meetings, canceling votes, and refusing to negotiate is not leadership — it’s abandonment of duty. To shut down the government is, in truth, to shut down the American people. It’s reckless, it’s irresponsible, and it’s selfish.

“Democrats remain ready to work around the clock to protect families, keep healthcare affordable, and ensure government stays open. While extremists look for ways to divide and delay, we are prepared to deliver solutions. The American people are counting on it, and I will not stop fighting for them.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement after voting NO on H.Res. 719:

“I did not vote for this resolution. While I stand firmly and without hesitation against all forms of violence, I cannot support language that requires us to praise a man who so often showed disdain and disrespect for others. This resolution is misleading. It attempts to make us forget the harm of his words and the pain caused by his ideology.

“No one should ever be attacked or killed because of their political beliefs. Violence is wrong. Period. As Americans, we resolve our differences through debate, through dialogue, and through the ballot box—not through bloodshed. I believe deeply in the Constitution, and that includes the right to free speech, even when we strongly disagree with it. But free speech does not erase the responsibility to tell the truth about its consequences.

“Charlie Kirk did not deserve to be murdered for his views. His life was taken unjustly, and that violence must be condemned in the strongest terms. My most sincere prayers go out to his wife, children, and his extended family during this time of great personal loss. At the same time, we cannot ignore that he used his platform to demean Black women like Michelle Obama and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, to dismiss diversity and fairness as “anti-White,” to question the qualifications of Black professionals, to mock LGBTQ Americans, to oppose health care for transgender people, and to promote the so-called “great replacement” theory. He even went so far as to say, “I have a very, very radical view on this, but I can defend it, and I’ve thought about it. We made a huge mistake when we passed the Civil Rights Act in the 1960s.” These are not harmless words. They carry the same spirit of division that once fueled Jim Crow—when racism and bigotry were written into law to deny people their rights and dignity.

“As a son of the South, I know how deeply such words can wound. They open old scars, justify injustice, and threaten the unity of our future. That is why I reject both violence and hate speech. Violence because no life should be taken for an opinion. Hate speech because no life should be diminished by the false claim that some people are less American, less worthy, or less human.

“I proudly represent a district that reflects the very fabric of this nation. Black, White, Latino, Asian. Christian, Muslim, Jewish, people of every faith and people of no faith. Men and women, gay and straight, transgender and nonbinary. Every person deserves dignity, safety, and equal protection under the law.

“This is what it means to be American. We do not honor our democracy by praising division or by rewriting the truth. We honor it by recommitting ourselves to peace, to justice, and to equality. That is how we heal, and that is how we ensure that the failures of Jim Crow, the poison of racism, and the sting of bigotry never again define our nation.

“And so I close with the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who reminded us: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Let us be the light, let us reject hate, and let us stand together as one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement after voting NO on House Republicans’ government funding bill:

“House Republicans have chosen to push through a partisan government funding bill that guts health care coverage. As Louisiana families are being squeezed by higher costs, Republicans refuse to stop double-digit hikes in their health insurance premiums. I will continue to push against this GOP-created crisis by fighting to cancel the cuts, lower the cost, and save YOUR health care.

“Remember, Republicans control the House, Senate, and White House. If the government shuts down, it will be because Congressional Republicans failed to govern responsibly, negotiate in good faith, and craft a bipartisan funding agreement.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Barry Moore (R-AL) introduced the Auto Bailout Accident Victims Recovery Act (AVRA) of 2025, which corrects the injustice brought upon hundreds of accident victims in nearly every state from the 2009 Auto Bailout.

“The AVRA corrects a longstanding injustice inflicted upon hundreds of accident victims across the nation during the 2009 Auto Bailout,” said Rep. Carter. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation, which is a vital step to restore faith in our system by rectifying the decision that denied accident victims their rightful claims during a time of national crisis, reinforcing the principles of fairness and justice for everyone.”

This bill would amend the statute of limitations for a Fifth Amendment class action takings case brought on behalf of the auto accident victims in a case filed in the United States Court of Federal Claims. The federal government unfairly singled out accident victims’ claims for elimination in the 2009 Auto Bailout, while other impacted parties (vendors, auto dealers, suppliers, unions, executives, etc.) were all made whole.

“For years, families who lost loved ones or suffered serious injuries because of GM’s defects have been denied justice, not because of their own actions, but because Washington chose to shield corporations instead of victims,” said Rep. Moore. “The Auto Bailout Accident Victims Recovery Act gives these families the chance to have their voices heard and ensure they finally receive the compensation they deserve.”

Background

Recent congressional action to amend the statute of limitations for constitutional and other claims by Americans has advanced for victims of contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune. Congress also amended the statute of limitations in a previous appropriations act in 1998 (captioned Pigford v. Glickman), in which Black farmers filed suit against the government alleging discrimination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in connection with various loan and economic support programs. Recognizing the injustice of barring these farmers from asserting older claims, Congress resolved the problem by waiving the applicable two-year statute of limitations for these cases.

Read the full bill text here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Co-Chair of the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus, introduced a bipartisan House Resolution in recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

“This issue is important to me because every year, the Black community is disproportionately affected by prostate cancer. Specifically, Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as white men,” said Rep. Carter. “To address the disparities in prostate cancer outcomes, we must ensure at-risk populations have access to prevention, early detection, and treatment options. But this disease does not have to be a death sentence. Together, we can increase awareness through campaigns like ‘Prostate Cancer Awareness Month’ and beat prostate cancer once and for all.”

“As a physician and Co-Chair of the Men’s Health Caucus, I’m proud to support this resolution. Too many men are dying from preventable conditions. Prostate Cancer Awareness Month will serve as a reminder to prioritize prevention, break stigma, and take action to improve outcomes for men and their families,” said Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA).

“As a former physician who has dedicated much of my career to men’s health, I know that it’s vital for men to be proactive about their prostate health, especially as they age,” said Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL). “Unfortunately, many are hesitant to seek regular screenings, even though early diagnosis can be lifesaving for patients with prostate cancer. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues on the Men’s Health Caucus in supporting the resolution designating September as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and encourage all American men to make prostate health a priority.”

“Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men,” said Rep. Lieu (D-CA). “It’s important to talk to a doctor about risk factors and getting screened, especially as you get older and the risk increases. Early detection can save lives. Making September National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder for men to prioritize their health. I’m pleased to join the Men’s Health Caucus on this bipartisan effort.”

“Educating Americans about prostate cancer and early detection strategies is crucial to saving lives and protecting families,” said Rep. Rob Menendez (D-NJ). “I am proud to help lead our efforts to designate September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and remain committed to making meaningful progress towards improved prevention measures and ending the stigma around men’s health.” 

The full text of the resolution is below, and you can read it here.

“Expressing support for the designation of September 2025 as “National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.”

“Whereas, more than 3,100,000 men have at some point been diagnosed with prostate cancer and are still alive in the United States;

“Whereas 1 in 8 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetimes and 1 in 44 men in the United States will die from prostate cancer;

“Whereas the Men’s Health Network advises that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed nonskin cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in the United States;

“Whereas the American Cancer Society estimates that, in 2025, 313,780 men will be diagnosed with, and more than 35,770 men will die of, prostate cancer;

“Whereas 40 percent of newly diagnosed prostate cancer cases occur in men under the age of 65;

“Whereas the odds of developing prostate cancer rise rapidly after age 50;

“Whereas African-American men suffer from a prostate cancer incidence rate that is significantly higher than that of White men and have more than double the prostate cancer mortality rate than that of White men;

“Whereas having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles the risk of a man developing prostate cancer, with a higher risk for men who have a brother with the disease and the highest risk for men with several affected relatives;

“Whereas screening by a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen blood test can detect the disease at the earlier, more treatable stages, which could increase the chances of survival for more than 5 years to nearly 100 percent;

“Whereas only 32 percent of men survive more than 5 years if diagnosed with prostate cancer after the cancer has metastasized;

“Whereas there are typically no noticeable symptoms of prostate cancer in the early stages, making appropriate screening critical;

“Whereas the Department of Veterans Affairs has established 21 Precision Oncology Centers of Excellence in order to deliver precision oncology services to veterans suffering from prostate cancer;

“Whereas ongoing research promises further improvements in prostate cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment; and

“Whereas educating people in the United States, including health care providers, about prostate cancer and early detection strategies is crucial to saving the lives of men and preserving and protecting families:

“Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—

“(1)expresses support for the designation of “National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month;”

(2) declares that steps should be taken—(A) to raise awareness about the importance of screening methods for, and treatment of, prostate cancer; (B) to encourage research—

(i) to improve screening and treatment for prostate cancer;

(ii) to discover the causes of prostate cancer; and

(iii) to develop a cure for prostate cancer; and (C) to continue to consider ways to improve access to, and the quality of, health care services for detecting and treating prostate cancer; and

(3) calls on the people of the United States, interest groups, and affected persons—(A) to promote awareness of prostate cancer; (B) to take an active role in the fight to end the devastating effects of prostate cancer on individuals, families, and the economy; and (C) to observe National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Background

Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02) is the Co-Chair of the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus. Congressman Carter is joined by Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA), Co-Chair, and Vice Chairs Reps. Neal Dunn (R-FL), Ted Lieu (D-CA), and Rob Menendez (D-NJ). The bipartisan Caucus is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues, encouraging men and boys to take an active role in their personal health, and promoting legislation that will improve the health and well-being of men, boys, and their families.

The Men’s Health Caucus focuses on topics including mental health care, prostate cancer screening, traumatic brain injury, and urological health issues. The Caucus will continue these efforts to educate Congress and the public about important topics in men’s health.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) introduced the bipartisan TWIC Efficiency (TWICE) Act. This legislation will improve access to the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program by assisting those currently in Federal, State, or local prisons through the TWIC card application process to gain this credential needed for specific transportation sector jobs.

“I am passionate about making sure our criminal justice system is fair and that returning citizens have every possible opportunity for success when they come home,” said Rep. Carter. “So many jobs in the United States require a TWIC card just to work behind a secure facility’s gate. Louisiana’s industries are begging for these workers, who are often training for these jobs while paying their debt to society. This bill will help make reentry more successful and ensure that workforce training can improve people’s lives.”

The TWICE Act does not change the criteria needed for TWIC cards, nor does it change any of the criteria that would bar an individual from receiving this certification. Instead, it directs TSA to be proactive in assisting returning citizens through this bureaucratic process.

The TWICE Act would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to:

• Develop guidelines to improve returning citizens’ access to the TWIC program.
• Develop guidelines to assist individuals in custody to pre-apply for TWIC cards and to assist those requesting an appeal or waiver after issuance of a “Preliminary Determination of Ineligibility.”
• Provide a briefing to Congress within a year on improvements to access to the TWIC program.

"The TWICE Act streamlines access to the TWIC program and will give an important second chance to formerly incarcerated individuals. I thank Congressman Troy Carter for his leadership on this effort and hope that my House and Senate colleagues will support its passage,” said Rep. Higgins.

“After serving their time, many formerly incarcerated Americans desire a fresh start to rebuild their lives and give back to their communities,” said Henry Hanscom, American Trucking Associations SVP of Legislative Affairs. “We applaud Congressman Carter, Sr., and Congressman Higgins for introducing legislation to help these individuals apply for enrollment in the Transportation Worker Identification Credential program. Given the high demand for professionals with this credential, this bill would fill a critical gap to connect qualified drivers with rewarding, good-paying employment opportunities in the trucking industry.”

“The tugboat, towboat and barge industry plays a critical role in the American supply chain, which requires having the dedicated, hardworking mariners we need to move the nation’s cargo on our domestic waterways. AWO is therefore pleased to support the TWICE Act, legislation that sensibly helps address the labor needs of this essential industry by making the TWIC process more efficient for individuals who have earned second chances and are seeking fulfilling careers, while ensuring we continue to take necessary measures to safeguard our nation’s homeland security,” said Jennifer Carpenter, President & CEO, The American Waterways Operators.

“Workforce shortages or delays in the credentialing process shouldn’t be a threat to our supply chains and maritime sector,” said Cary S. Davis, American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA). “AAPA applauds Congressmen Troy Carter and Clay Higgins for their bipartisan work to introduce the TWICE Act, reaffirming the need for fairness in the hiring process and supporting maritime workforce development that powers our nation’s economic growth.”

“The TWICE Act strengthens America’s position in international trade by opening doors for more skilled workers to join our ports, shipyards, and maritime facilities,” said Chris Sullivan, Board Chair of World Trade Center New Orleans. “By reducing red tape and modernizing the TWIC process, this legislation addresses critical labor shortages while ensuring secure and efficient trade operations. It’s a win for the regional workforce, the nation’s supply chain, and the competitiveness of Louisiana as a hub for global commerce.”

“Transportation jobs are the backbone of America’s prosperity. Transportation workers ensure Americans get what they need, when they need it. Transportation workers are essential workers, delivering in the harshest and most dangerous of conditions. At a time when we all recognize the importance of a secure supply chain, it is critical that we bring in more Americans to the transportation workforce. Many thanks to Congressman Carter and Congressman Higgins for their efforts to make transportation jobs accessible to everyone that wants to contribute to American success," said Sara Fuentes, Vice President, Government Affairs at Transportation Institute.

“Thousands of justice-impacted individuals find themselves unable to access quality jobs because of unnecessary exclusions from credentials like TWIC cards. These barriers do little to support public safety and instead deter qualified talent from pursuing these opportunities" said Sam Schaeffer, Chief Executive Officer of Center for Employment Opportunities. "The TWICE Act would make the process of obtaining a TWIC card more manageable for justice-impacted applicants so every qualified individual has the opportunity to obtain their TWIC card and pursue a sustaining career."

“The TWICE Act shows how smart, bipartisan policy can strengthen our economy,” said Michael Hecht, President and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. “By expanding access to the TWIC process, this legislation will help more people move into high-demand maritime, energy, and shipbuilding careers, addressing labor shortages and ensuring Greater New Orleans remains competitive in the global marketplace."

“Allowing incarcerated individuals to apply and appeal decisions to obtain TWIC cards in advance of leaving federal, state, or local prisons promotes public safety. By increasing the chances of employment, we decrease the chances of recidivism after release,” said Brett Tolman, Executive Director for Right on Crime and former U.S. Attorney. “The TWICE Act is a common-sense policy idea that allows eligible individuals-who have served their time - a real opportunity to obtain a life-sustaining career.”

“As a leading provider of bulk liquid storage and handling services, IMTT depends on a highly skilled, reliable, and diverse workforce to ensure the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of our terminal facilities across the United States,” said Carlin Conner, Chairman and CEO of IMTT. “We believe in giving Americans second chances, breaking down barriers to highly valued jobs, and expanding the talented pool of skilled workers ready and willing to do the hard work of building and operating ships, ports, facilities and other infrastructure that make the U.S. energy industry one of the most dynamic and robust in the world. The TWICE Act does all these things, and we are proud to endorse it. We commend U.S. Reps. Carter and Higgins for their leadership and forward thinking in authoring this important legislation. Its passage will immediately benefit the people and economy of Louisiana, and further brighten the future for energy, maritime, and transportation industries everywhere. IMTT is committed to doing our part in creating safe, well-paying, and accessible career pathways—and we believe the TWICE Act is a critical step toward that goal.”

“As a former probation and parole officer, I know accountability is essential for public safety—but accountability must be paired with opportunity. The TWICE Act strengthens public safety by helping lower recidivism while also building pathways for employment and workforce development. By ensuring people returning from prison can contribute productively, this bill upholds justice and reflects the Christian value of redemption,” said Scott E. Peyton, Director of Government Affairs, Prison Fellowship.

Background

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program was created by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) of 2002 as a response to September 11th and extenuating concern over national security. TWIC remains critical to national security by regulating access to maritime facilities and vessels. Across the country, there are 13,825 vessels and 3,270 facilities under MTSA’s jurisdiction. These facilities are often major employment hubs – ports, terminals, factories, refineries, power plants, and more.

TWIC assists in controlling workers’ access, like those involved in the surface transportation of containers in or out of ports or those involved in the construction, maintenance, or operation of adjacent facilities and their associated infrastructure. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) manages TWIC card applications. In total, 2.3 million Americans have TWIC cards, and about 500,000 Americans enroll per year.

TWIC cards are often required for employment in high-demand professions for which labor is in low supply. Facilities within MTSA’s jurisdiction are critical to the supply chain yet are egregiously affected by labor shortages. Nationally, as of October 2023, there is a 2-million-person gap between job openings and unemployed workers, and the labor participation rate has fallen from 67% in 2000 to 62% today.

Before issuing a TWIC card, TSA will conduct a security threat assessment to determine a person’s eligibility. Applicants with criminal records, depending on the offense, will be temporarily or permanently disqualified from the TWIC program. According to TSA, individuals in the custody of Federal, State, and local prisons are not eligible until after they are released from custody. After, they will receive a “Preliminary Determination of Illegibility” for one-year post-release, regardless of offense. Applicants may appeal a preliminary determination and go through a redress process, and TSA issues a waiver in most circumstances.

Based on a TSA-verified sample, approximately 98% of applicants are issued a TWIC card, including redress cases. However, approximately 62% of applicants do not respond to redress notifications. Only 0.1% of those requesting redress are denied due to TSA standards. The redress process is burdensome and often takes months for TSA to review conviction details, circumstances, and proof of rehabilitation. Assisting applicants with the redress process – and minimizing the number of applicants going through this process – can accelerate hiring, increase the labor pool, and reduce TSA’s administrative burden.

Nearly 30% of American adults have a criminal record, yet adult incarceration nationally has declined by 30% in the past decade. Just in Louisiana, about 13,000 formerly incarcerated persons are released back into communities each year.

The TWICE Act is endorsed by American Trucking Association, American Waterways Operators, American Association of Port Authorities, World Trade Center of New Orleans, Transportation Institute, Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), GNO Inc., Right on Crime, IMTT, The Cooper Group, Cooper Consolidated, Prison Fellowship, Riverview Boat Store - St. Louis barge company, We Work the Waterways, Central Ohio River Business Association (CORBA), Bayaud Enterprises, Bridgeways, Church World Service, Commercial Drivers License of California, Community Kitchen Pittsburgh, Conservation Corps of Long Beach, First 72+, JOB1 Business & Career Solutions, Justice & Accountability Center of Louisiana, JustUS Coordinating Council, Michigan Collaborative to End Mass Incarceration,  National Skills Coalition (NSC), New York Association of Training & Employment Professionals, REDF, Repowered, The Fortune Society, Trade Institute of Pittsburgh, The Los Angeles Regional Reentry Partnership, Valeo Vocation, Jobs for the Future, JustLeadershipUSA, and Reentry Working Group.

Read the full bill here.

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