S.Amdt. 3822Senate109th Congress (2005-2007)

S.Amdt. 3822

Submitted May 1, 2006

Text

Submitted

SA 3822. Mr. INOUYE (for himself, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Shelby, Mr. Sarbanes, Mr. Rockefeller, Mr. Reed, Mrs. Boxer, Mrs. Clinton, and Mr. Allard) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 4939, making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2006, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows:

TITLE --IMPROVED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SECURITY

SEC. --101. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This title may be cited as the “Public Transportation Terrorism Prevention Act of 2006”.

(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this title is as follows:

Sec. --101. Short title; table of contents.

Sec. --102. Findings and purpose.

Sec. --103. Security assessments.

Sec. --104. Security assistance grants.

Sec. --105. Intelligence sharing.

Sec. --106. Research, development, and demonstration grants.

Sec. --107. Reporting requirements.

Sec. --108. Authorization of appropriations.

Sec. --109. Sunset provision.

SEC. --102. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--

(1) public transportation systems throughout the world have been a primary target of terrorist attacks, causing countless death and injuries;

(2) 5,800 public transportation agencies operate in the United States;

(3) 14,000,000 people in the United States ride public transportation each work day;

(4) safe and secure public transportation systems are essential for the Nation's economy and for significant national and international public events;

(5) the Federal Transit Administration has invested $74,900,000,000 since 1992 for construction and improvements to the Nation's public transportation systems;

(6) the Federal Government appropriately invested $18,100,000,000 in fiscal years 2002 through 2005 to protect our Nation's aviation system and its 1,800,000 daily passengers;

(7) the Federal Government has allocated $250,000,000 in fiscal years 2003 through 2005 to protect public transportation systems in the United States;

(8) the Federal Government has invested $7.38 in aviation security improvements per passenger, but only $0.007 in public transportation security improvements per passenger;

(9) the Government Accountability Office, the Mineta Institute for Surface Transportation Policy Studies, the American Public Transportation Association, and many transportation experts have reported an urgent need for significant investment in public transportation security improvements; and

(10) the Federal Government has a duty to deter and mitigate, to the greatest extent practicable, threats against the Nation's public transportation systems.

SEC. --103. SECURITY ASSESSMENTS.

(a) Public Transportation Security Assessments.--

(1) Submission.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Federal Transit Administration of the Department of Transportation shall submit all public transportation security assessments and all other relevant information to the Secretary of Homeland Security.

(2) Review.--Not later than July 31, 2006, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall review and augment the security assessments received under paragraph (1).

(3) Allocations.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall use the security assessments received under paragraph (1) as the basis for allocating grant funds under section --104, unless the Secretary notifies the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate that the Secretary has determined that an adjustment is necessary to respond to an urgent threat or other significant factors.

(4) Security improvement priorities.--Not later than September 30, 2006, the Secretary of Homeland Security, after consultation with the management and employee representatives of each public transportation system for which a security assessment has been received under paragraph (1), shall establish security improvement priorities that will be used by public transportation agencies for any funding provided under section --104.

(5) Updates.--Not later than July 31, 2007, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall--

(A) update the security assessments referred to in this subsection; and

(B) conduct security assessments of all public transportation agencies considered to be at greatest risk of a terrorist attack.

(b) Use of Security Assessment Information.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall use the information collected under subsection (a)--

(1) to establish the process for developing security guidelines for public transportation security; and

(2) to design a security improvement strategy that--

(A) minimizes terrorist threats to public transportation systems; and

(B) maximizes the efforts of public transportation systems to mitigate damage from terrorist attacks.

(c) Bus and Rural Public Transportation Systems.--Not later than July 31, 2006, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall conduct security assessments, appropriate to the size and nature of each system, to determine the specific needs of--

(1) local bus-only public transportation systems; and

(2) selected public transportation systems that receive funds under section 5311 of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. --104. SECURITY ASSISTANCE GRANTS.

(a) Capital Security Assistance Program.--

(1) In general.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall award grants directly to public transportation agencies for allowable capital security improvements based on the priorities established under section --103(a)(4).

(2) Allowable use of funds.--Grants awarded under paragraph (1) may be used for--

(A) tunnel protection systems;

(B) perimeter protection systems;

(C) redundant critical operations control systems;

(D) chemical, biological, radiological, or explosive detection systems;

(E) surveillance equipment;

(F) communications equipment;

(G) emergency response equipment;

(H) fire suppression and decontamination equipment;

(I) global positioning or automated vehicle locator type system equipment;

(J) evacuation improvements; and

(K) other capital security improvements.

(b) Operational Security Assistance Program.--

(1) In general.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall award grants directly to public transportation agencies for allowable operational security improvements based on the priorities established under section --103(a)(4).

(2) Allowable use of funds.--Grants awarded under paragraph (1) may be used for--

(A) security training for public transportation employees, including bus and rail operators, mechanics, customer service, maintenance employees, transit police, and security personnel;

(B) live or simulated drills;

(C) public awareness campaigns for enhanced public transportation security;

(D) canine patrols for chemical, biological, or explosives detection;

(E) overtime reimbursement for enhanced security personnel during significant national and international public events, consistent with the priorities established under section --103(a)(4); and

(F) other appropriate security improvements identified under section --103(a)(4), excluding routine, ongoing personnel costs.

(c) Congressional Notification.--Not later than 3 days before the award of any grant under this section, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall notify the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate of the intent to award such grant.

(d) Public Transportation Agency Responsibilities.--Each public transportation agency that receives a grant under this section shall--

(1) identify a security coordinator to coordinate security improvements;

(2) develop a comprehensive plan that demonstrates the agency's capacity for operating and maintaining the equipment purchased under this section; and

(3) report annually to the Department of Homeland Security on the use of grant funds received under this section.

(e) Return of Misspent Grant Funds.--If the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that a grantee used any portion of the grant funds received under this section for a purpose other than the allowable uses specified for that grant under this section, the grantee shall return any amount so used to the Treasury of the United States.

SEC. --105. INTELLIGENCE SHARING.

(a) Intelligence Sharing.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall ensure that the Department of Transportation receives appropriate and timely notification of all credible terrorist threats against public transportation assets in the United States.

(b) Information Sharing Analysis Center.--

(1) Establishment.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide sufficient financial assistance for the reasonable costs of the Information Sharing and Analysis Center for Public Transportation (referred to in this subsection as the “ISAC”) established pursuant to Presidential Directive 63, to protect critical infrastructure.

(2) Public transportation agency participation.--The Secretary of Homeland Security--

(A) shall require those public transportation agencies that the Secretary determines to be at significant risk of terrorist attack to participate in the ISAC;

(B) shall encourage all other public transportation agencies to participate in the ISAC; and

(C) shall not charge a fee to any public transportation agency for participating in the ISAC.

SEC. --106. RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION GRANTS.

(a) Grants Authorized.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Federal Transit Administration, shall award grants to public or private entities to conduct research into, and demonstrate, technologies and methods to reduce and deter terrorist threats or mitigate damages resulting from terrorist attacks against public transportation systems.

(b) Use of Funds.--Grants awarded under subsection (a) may be used to

(1) research chemical, biological, radiological, or explosive detection systems that do not significantly impede passenger access;

(2) research imaging technologies;

(3) conduct product evaluations and testing; and

(4) research other technologies or methods for reducing or deterring terrorist attacks against public transportation systems, or mitigating damage from such attacks.

(c) Reporting Requirement.--Each entity that receives a grant under this section shall report annually to the Department of Homeland Security on the use of grant funds received under this section.

(d) Return of Misspent Grant Funds.--If the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that a grantee used any portion of the grant funds received under this section for a purpose other than the allowable uses specified under subsection (b), the grantee shall return any amount so used to the Treasury of the United States.

SEC. --107. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Semi-Annual Report to Congress.--

(1) In general.--Not later than March 31 and September 30 of each year, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a report, containing the information described in paragraph (2), to--

(A) the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate;

(B) the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; and

(C) the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.

(2) Contents.--The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include--

(A) a description of the implementation of the provisions of sections -- 103 through 106;

(B) the amount of funds appropriated to carry out the provisions of each of sections -- 103 through 106 that have not been expended or obligated; and

(C) the state of public transportation security in the United States.

(b) Annual Report to Governors.--

(1) In general.--Not later than March 31 of each year, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a report to the Governor of each State with a public transportation agency that has received a grant under this title.

(2) Contents.--The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall specify--

(A) the amount of grant funds distributed to each such public transportation agency; and

(B) the use of such grant funds.

SEC. --108. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

(a) Capital Security Assistance Program.--There are authorized to be appropriated $2,370,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 to carry out the provisions of section --104(a), which shall remain available until expended.

(b) Operational Security Assistance Program.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of section --104(b)--

(1) $534,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(2) $333,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(3) $133,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.

(c) Intelligence.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of section --105.

(d) Research.--There are authorized to be appropriated $130,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 to carry out the provisions of section --106, which shall remain available until expended.

SEC. --109. SUNSET PROVISION.

The authority to make grants under this title shall expire on October 1, 2009.

TITLE --IMPROVED RAIL SECURITY

SEC. --201. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This title may be cited as the “Rail Security Act of 2006”.

(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this title is as follows:

Sec. --201. Short title; table of contents.

Sec. --202. Rail transportation security risk assessment.

Sec. --203. Systemwide AMTRAK security upgrades.

Sec. --204. Fire and life-safety improvements.

Sec. --205. Freight and passenger rail security upgrades.

Sec. --206. Rail security research and development.

Sec. --207. Oversight and grant procedures.

Sec. --208. AMTRAK plan to assist families of passengers involved in rail passenger accidents.

Sec. --209. Northern border rail passenger report.

Sec. --210. Rail worker security training program.

Sec. --211. Whistleblower protection program.

Sec. --212. High hazard material security threat mitigation plans.

Sec. --213. Memorandum of agreement.

Sec. --214. Rail security enhancements.

Sec. --215. Public awareness.

Sec. --216. Railroad high hazard material tracking.

Sec. --217. Authorization of appropriations.

SEC. --202. RAIL TRANSPORTATION SECURITY RISK ASSESSMENT.

(a) In General.--

(1) Vulnerability and risk assessment.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish a task force, including the Transportation Security Administration, the Department of Transportation, and other appropriate agencies, to complete a vulnerability and risk assessment of freight and

passenger rail transportation (encompassing railroads, as that term is defined in section 20102(1) of title 49, United States Code). The assessment shall include--

(A) a methodology for conducting the risk assessment, including timelines, that addresses how the Department of Homeland Security will work with the entities describe in subsection (b) and make use of existing Federal expertise within the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Transportation, and other appropriate agencies;

(B) identification and evaluation of critical assets and infrastructures;

(C) identification of vulnerabilities and risks to those assets and infrastructures;

(D) identification of vulnerabilities and risks that are specific to the transportation of hazardous materials via railroad;

(E) identification of security weaknesses in passenger and cargo security, transportation infrastructure, protection systems, procedural policies, communications systems, employee training, emergency response planning, and any other area identified by the assessment; and

(F) an account of actions taken or planned by both public and private entities to address identified rail security issues and assess the effective integration of such actions.

(2) Recommendations.--Based on the assessment conducted under paragraph (1), the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall develop prioritized recommendations for improving rail security, including any recommendations the Secretary has for--

(A) improving the security of rail tunnels, rail bridges, rail switching and car storage areas, other rail infrastructure and facilities, information systems, and other areas identified by the Secretary as posing significant rail-related risks to public safety and the movement of interstate commerce, taking into account the impact that any proposed security measure might have on the provision of rail service;

(B) deploying equipment to detect explosives and hazardous chemical, biological, and radioactive substances, and any appropriate countermeasures;

(C) training appropriate railroad or railroad shipper employees in terrorism prevention, passenger evacuation, and response activities;

(D) conducting public outreach campaigns on passenger railroads;

(E) deploying surveillance equipment; and

(F) identifying the immediate and long-term costs of measures that may be required to address those risks.

(3) Plans.--The report required by subsection (c) shall include--

(A) a plan, developed in consultation with the freight and intercity passenger railroads, and State and local governments, for the Federal government to provide increased security support at high or severe threat levels of alert;

(B) a plan for coordinating existing and planned rail security initiatives undertaken by the public and private sectors; and

(C) a contingency plan, developed in conjunction with freight and intercity and commuter passenger railroads, to ensure the continued movement of freight and passengers in the event of an attack affecting the railroad system, which shall contemplate--

(i) the possibility of rerouting traffic due to the loss of critical infrastructure, such as a bridge, tunnel, yard, or station; and

(ii) methods of continuing railroad service in the Northeast Corridor in the event of a commercial power loss, or catastrophe affecting a critical bridge, tunnel, yard, or station.

(b) Consultation; Use of Existing Resources.--In carrying out the assessment and developing the recommendations and plans required by subsection (a), the Secretary of Homeland Security shall consult with rail management, rail labor, owners or lessors of rail cars used to transport hazardous materials, first responders, shippers of hazardous materials, public safety officials, and other relevant parties.

(c) Report.--

(1) Contents.--Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security a report containing the assessment, prioritized recommendations, and plans required by subsection (a) and an estimate of the cost to implement such recommendations.

(2) Format.--The Secretary may submit the report in both classified and redacted formats if the Secretary determines that such action is appropriate or necessary.

(d) Annual Updates.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall update the assessment and recommendations each year and transmit a report, which may be submitted in both classified and redacted formats, to the Committees named in subsection (c)(1), containing the updated assessment and recommendations.

(e) Funding.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section 114(u) of title 49, United States Code, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out this section $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2007.

SEC. --203. SYSTEMWIDE AMTRAK SECURITY UPGRADES.

(a) In General.--Subject to subsection (c) the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration), is authorized to make grants to Amtrak--

(1) to secure major tunnel access points and ensure tunnel integrity in New York, Baltimore, and Washington, DC;

(2) to secure Amtrak trains;

(3) to secure Amtrak stations;

(4) to obtain a watch list identification system approved by the Secretary;

(5) to obtain train tracking and interoperable communications systems that are coordinated to the maximum extent possible;

(6) to hire additional police and security officers, including canine units;

(7) to expand emergency preparedness efforts; and

(8) for employee security training.

(b) Conditions.--The Secretary of Transportation shall disburse funds to Amtrak provided under subsection (a) for projects contained in a systemwide security plan approved by the Secretary of Homeland Security. The plan shall include appropriate measures to address security awareness, emergency response, and passenger evacuation training.

(c) Equitable Geographic Allocation.--The Secretary shall ensure that, subject to meeting the highest security needs on Amtrak's entire system and consistent with the risk assessment required under section --202, stations and facilities located outside of the Northeast Corridor receive an equitable share of the security funds authorized by this section.

(d) Availability of Funds.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section 114(u) of title 49, United States Code, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration) to carry out this section--

(1) $63,500,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(2) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(3) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2009. Amounts appropriated pursuant to this subsection shall remain available until expended.

SEC. --204. FIRE AND LIFE-SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS.

(a) Life-Safety Needs.--The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, is authorized to make grants to Amtrak for the purpose of making fire and life-safety improvements to Amtrak tunnels on the Northeast Corridor in New York, NY, Baltimore, MD, and Washington, DC.

(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section --217(b) of this title, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Transportation for the purposes of carrying out subsection (a) the following amounts:

(1) For the 6 New York tunnels to provide ventilation, electrical, and fire safety technology upgrades, emergency communication and lighting systems, and emergency access and egress for passengers--

(A) $190,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(B) $190,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(C) $190,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.

(2) For the Baltimore & Potomac tunnel and the Union tunnel, together, to provide adequate drainage, ventilation, communication, lighting, and passenger egress upgrades--

(A) $19,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(B) $19,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(C) $19,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.

(3) For the Washington, DC, Union Station tunnels to improve ventilation, communication, lighting, and passenger egress upgrades--

(A) $13,333,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(B) $13,333,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(C) $13,333,000 for fiscal year 2009.

(c) Infrastructure Upgrades.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section --217(b) of this title, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Transportation for fiscal year 2007 $3,000,000 for the preliminary design of options for a new tunnel on a different alignment to augment the capacity of the existing Baltimore tunnels.

(d) Availability of Appropriated Funds.--Amounts made available pursuant to this section shall remain available until expended.

(e) Plans Required.--The Secretary of Transportation may not make amounts available to Amtrak for obligation or expenditure under subsection (a)--

(1) until Amtrak has submitted to the Secretary, and the Secretary has approved, an engineering and financial plan for such projects; and

(2) unless, for each project funded pursuant to this section, the Secretary has approved a project management plan prepared by Amtrak addressing appropriate project budget, construction schedule, recipient staff organization, document control and record keeping, change order procedure, quality control and assurance, periodic plan updates, and periodic status reports.

(f) Review of Plans.--The Secretary of Transportation shall complete the review of the plans required by paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (e) and approve or disapprove the plans within 45 days after the date on which each such plan is submitted by Amtrak. If the Secretary determines that a plan is incomplete or deficient, the Secretary shall notify Amtrak of the incomplete items or deficiencies and Amtrak shall, within 30 days after receiving the Secretary's notification, submit a modified plan for the Secretary's review. Within 15 days after receiving additional information on items previously included in the plan, and within 45 days after receiving items newly included in a modified plan, the Secretary shall either approve the modified plan, or, if the Secretary finds the plan is still incomplete or deficient, the Secretary shall identify in writing to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security the portions of the plan the Secretary finds incomplete or deficient, approve all other portions of the plan, obligate the funds associated with those other portions, and execute an agreement with Amtrak within 15 days thereafter on a process for resolving the remaining portions of the plan.

(g) Financial Contribution From Other Tunnel Users.--The Secretary shall, taking into account the need for the timely completion of all portions of the tunnel projects described in subsection (a)--

(1) consider the extent to which rail carriers other than Amtrak use or plan to use the tunnels;

(2) consider the feasibility of seeking a financial contribution from those other rail carriers toward the costs of the projects; and

(3) obtain financial contributions or commitments from such other rail carriers at levels reflecting the extent of their use or planned use of the tunnels, if feasible.

SEC. --205. FREIGHT AND PASSENGER RAIL SECURITY UPGRADES.

(a) Security Improvement Grants.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration) and other appropriate agencies, is authorized to make grants to freight railroads, the Alaska Railroad, hazardous materials shippers, owners of rail cars used in the transportation of hazardous materials, universities, colleges and research centers, State and local governments (for rail passenger facilities and infrastructure not owned by Amtrak), and, through the Secretary of Transportation, to Amtrak, for full or partial reimbursement of costs incurred in the conduct of activities to prevent or respond to acts of terrorism, sabotage, or other intercity passenger rail and freight rail security vulnerabilities and risks identified under section --202, including--

(1) security and redundancy for critical communications, computer, and train control systems essential for secure rail operations;

(2) accommodation of rail cargo or passenger screening equipment at the United States-Mexico border, the United States-Canada border, or other ports of entry;

(3) the security of hazardous material transportation by rail;

(4) secure intercity passenger rail stations, trains, and infrastructure;

(5) structural modification or replacement of rail cars transporting high hazard materials to improve their resistance to acts of terrorism;

(6) employee security awareness, preparedness, passenger evacuation, and emergency response training;

(7) public security awareness campaigns for passenger train operations;

(8) the sharing of intelligence and information about security threats;

(9) to obtain train tracking and interoperable communications systems that are coordinated to the maximum extent possible;

(10) to hire additional police and security officers, including canine units; and

(11) other improvements recommended by the report required by section --202, including infrastructure, facilities, and equipment upgrades.

(b) Accountability.--The Secretary shall adopt necessary procedures, including audits, to ensure that grants made under this section are expended in accordance with the purposes of this title and the priorities and other criteria developed by the Secretary.

(c) Allocation.--The Secretary shall distribute the funds authorized by this section based on risk and vulnerability as determined under section --202, and shall encourage non-Federal financial participation in awarding grants. With respect to grants for intercity passenger rail security, the Secretary shall also take into account passenger volume and whether a station is used by commuter rail passengers as well as intercity rail passengers.

(d) Conditions.--The Secretary of Transportation may not disburse funds to Amtrak under subsection (a) unless Amtrak meets the conditions set forth in section --203(b) of this title.

(e) Allocation Between Railroads and Others.--Unless as a result of the assessment required by section --202 the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that critical rail transportation security needs require reimbursement in greater amounts to any eligible entity, no grants under this section may be made--

(1) in excess of $45,000,000 to Amtrak; or

(2) in excess of $80,000,000 for the purposes described in paragraphs (3) and (5) of subsection (a).

(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section 114(u) of title 49, United States Code, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out this section--

(1) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(2) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(3) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2009. Amounts made available pursuant to this subsection shall remain available until expended.

(g) High Hazard Materials Defined.--In this section, the term “high hazard materials” means quantities of poison inhalation hazard materials, Class 2.3 gases, Class 6.1 materials, and anhydrous ammonia that the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, determines pose a security risk.

SEC. --206. RAIL SECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

(a) Establishment of Research and Development Program.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Under Secretary for Science and Technology and the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration), in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation shall carry out a research and development program for the purpose of improving freight and intercity passenger rail security that may include research and development projects to--

(1) reduce the vulnerability of passenger trains, stations, and equipment to explosives and hazardous chemical, biological, and radioactive substances;

(2) test new emergency response techniques and technologies;

(3) develop improved freight technologies, including--

(A) technologies for sealing rail cars;

(B) automatic inspection of rail cars;

(C) communication-based train controls; and

(D) emergency response training;

(4) test wayside detectors that can detect tampering with railroad equipment;

(5) support enhanced security for the transportation of hazardous materials by rail, including--

(A) technologies to detect a breach in a tank car or other rail car used to transport hazardous materials and transmit information about the integrity of cars to the train crew or dispatcher;

(B) research to improve tank car integrity, with a focus on tank cars that carry high hazard materials (as defined in section --205(g) of this title; and

(C) techniques to transfer hazardous materials from rail cars that are damaged or otherwise represent an unreasonable risk to human life or public safety; and

(6) other projects that address vulnerabilities and risks identified under section --202.

(b) Coordination With Other Research Initiatives.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall ensure that the research and development program authorized by this section is coordinated with other research and development initiatives at the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Transportation. The Secretary shall carry out any research and development project authorized by this section through a reimbursable agreement with the Secretary of Transportation, if the Secretary of Transportation--

(1) is already sponsoring a research and development project in a similar area; or

(2) has a unique facility or capability that would be useful in carrying out the project.

(c) Grants and Accountability.--To carry out the research and development program, the Secretary may award grants to the entities described in section --205(a) and shall adopt necessary procedures, including audits, to ensure that grants made under this section are expended in accordance with the purposes of this title and the priorities and other criteria developed by the Secretary.

(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section 114(u) of title 49, United States Code, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out this section--

(1) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(2) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(3) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2009. Amounts made available pursuant to this subsection shall remain available until expended.

SEC. --207. OVERSIGHT AND GRANT PROCEDURES.

(a) Secretarial Oversight.--The Secretary of Homeland Security may use up to 0.5 percent of amounts made available for capital projects under the Rail Security Act of 2006 to enter into contracts for the review of proposed capital projects and related program management plans and to oversee construction of such projects.

(b) Use of Funds.--The Secretary may use amounts available under subsection (a) of this subsection to make contracts to audit and review the safety, procurement, management, and financial compliance of a recipient of amounts under this title.

(c) Procedures for Grant Award.--The Secretary shall, within 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, prescribe procedures and schedules for the awarding of grants under this title, including application and qualification procedures (including a requirement that the applicant have a security plan), and a record of decision on applicant eligibility. The procedures shall include the execution of a grant agreement between the grant recipient and the Secretary and shall be consistent, to the extent practicable, with the grant procedures established under section 70107 of title 46, United States Code.

SEC. --208. AMTRAK PLAN TO ASSIST FAMILIES OF PASSENGERS INVOLVED IN RAIL PASSENGER ACCIDENTS.

(a) In General.--Chapter 243 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

“Sec. 24316. Plans to address needs of families of

passengers involved in rail passenger accidents

“(a) Submission of Plan.--Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of the Rail Security Act of 2006, Amtrak shall submit to the Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security a plan for addressing the needs of the families of passengers involved in any rail passenger accident involving an Amtrak intercity train and resulting in a loss of life.

“(b) Contents of Plans.--The plan to be submitted by Amtrak under subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following:

“(1) A process by which Amtrak will maintain and provide to the National Transportation Safety Board and the Secretary of Transportation, immediately upon request, a list (which is based on the best available information at the time of the request) of the names of the passengers aboard the train (whether or not such names have been verified), and will periodically update the list. The plan shall include a procedure, with respect to unreserved trains and passengers not holding reservations on other trains, for Amtrak to use reasonable efforts to ascertain the number and names of passengers aboard a train involved in an accident.

“(2) A plan for creating and publicizing a reliable, toll-free telephone number within 4 hours after such an accident occurs, and for providing staff, to handle calls from the families of the passengers.

“(3) A process for notifying the families of the passengers, before providing any public notice of the names of the passengers, by suitably trained individuals.

“(4) A process for providing the notice described in paragraph (2) to the family of a passenger as soon as Amtrak has verified that the passenger was aboard the train (whether or not the names of all of the passengers have been verified).

“(5) A process by which the family of each passenger will be consulted about the disposition of all remains and personal effects of the passenger within Amtrak's control; that any possession of the passenger within Amtrak's control will be returned to the family unless the possession is needed for the accident investigation or any criminal investigation; and that any unclaimed possession of a passenger within Amtrak's control will be retained by the rail passenger carrier for at least 18 months.

“(6) A process by which the treatment of the families of nonrevenue passengers will be the same as the treatment of the families of revenue passengers.

“(7) An assurance that Amtrak will provide adequate training to its employees and agents to meet the needs of survivors and family members following an accident.

“(c) Use of Information.--The National Transportation Safety Board, the Secretary of Transportation, and Amtrak may not release any personal information on a list obtained under subsection (b)(1) but may provide information on the list about a passenger to the family of the passenger to the extent that the Board or Amtrak considers appropriate.

“(d) Limitation on Liability.--Amtrak shall not be liable for damages in any action brought in a Federal or State court arising out of the performance of Amtrak in preparing or providing a passenger list, or in providing information concerning a train reservation, pursuant to a plan submitted by Amtrak under subsection (b), unless such liability was caused by Amtrak's conduct.

“(e) Limitation on Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be construed as limiting the actions that Amtrak may take, or the obligations that Amtrak may have, in providing assistance to the families of passengers involved in a rail passenger accident.

“(f) Funding.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section --217(b) of the Rail Security Act of 2006, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Transportation for the use of Amtrak $500,000 for fiscal year 2007 to carry out this section. Amounts made available pursuant to this subsection shall remain available until expended.”.

(b) Conforming Amendment.--The chapter analysis for chapter 243 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

“24316. Plan to assist families of passengers involved in rail passenger accidents.”.

SEC. --209. NORTHERN BORDER RAIL PASSENGER REPORT.

Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration), the Secretary of Transportation, heads of other appropriate Federal departments, and agencies and the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, shall transmit a report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security that contains--

(1) a description of the current system for screening passengers and baggage on passenger rail service between the United States and Canada;

(2) an assessment of the current program to provide preclearance of airline passengers between the United States and Canada as outlined in “The Agreement on Air Transport Preclearance between the Government of Canada and the Government of the United States of America”, dated January 18, 2001;

(3) an assessment of the current program to provide preclearance of freight railroad traffic between the United States and Canada as outlined in the “Declaration of Principle for the Improved Security of Rail Shipments by Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Railway from Canada to the United States”, dated April 2, 2003;

(4) information on progress by the Department of Homeland Security and other Federal agencies towards finalizing a bilateral protocol with Canada that would provide for preclearance of passengers on trains operating between the United States and Canada;

(5) a description of legislative, regulatory, budgetary, or policy barriers within the United States Government to providing pre-screened passenger lists for rail passengers traveling between the United States and Canada to the Department of Homeland Security;

(6) a description of the position of the Government of Canada and relevant Canadian agencies with respect to preclearance of such passengers;

(7) a draft of any changes in existing Federal law necessary to provide for pre-screening of such passengers and providing pre-screened passenger lists to the Department of Homeland Security; and

(8) an analysis of the feasibility of reinstating in-transit inspections onboard international Amtrak trains.

SEC. --210. RAIL WORKER SECURITY TRAINING PROGRAM.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with appropriate law enforcement, security, and terrorism experts, representatives of railroad carriers, and nonprofit employee organizations that represent rail workers, shall develop and issue detailed guidance for a rail worker security training program to prepare front-line workers for potential threat conditions. The guidance shall take into consideration any current security training requirements or best practices.

(b) Program Elements.--The guidance developed under subsection (a) shall include elements, as appropriate to passenger and freight rail service, that address the following:

(1) Determination of the seriousness of any occurrence.

(2) Crew communication and coordination.

(3) Appropriate responses to defend or protect oneself.

(4) Use of protective devices.

(5) Evacuation procedures.

(6) Psychology of terrorists to cope with hijacker behavior and passenger responses.

(7) Situational training exercises regarding various threat conditions.

(8) Any other subject the Secretary considers appropriate.

(c) Railroad Carrier Programs.--Not later than 90 days after the Secretary of Homeland Security issues guidance under subsection (a) in final form, each railroad carrier shall develop a rail worker security training program in accordance with that guidance and submit it to the Secretary for review. Not later than 30 days after receiving a railroad carrier's program under this subsection, the Secretary shall review the program and transmit comments to the railroad carrier concerning any revisions the Secretary considers necessary for the program to meet the guidance requirements. A railroad carrier shall respond to the Secretary's comments within 30 days after receiving them.

(d) Training.--Not later than 1 year after the Secretary reviews the training program developed by a railroad carrier under this section, the railroad carrier shall complete the training of all front-line workers in accordance with that program. The Secretary shall review implementation of the training program of a representative sample of railroad carriers and report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security on the number of reviews conducted and the results. The Secretary may submit the report in both classified and redacted formats as necessary.

(e) Updates.--The Secretary shall update the training guidance issued under subsection (a) as appropriate to reflect new or different security threats. Railroad carriers shall revise their programs accordingly and provide additional training to their front-line workers within a reasonable time after the guidance is updated.

(f) Front-Line Workers Defined.--In this section, the term “front-line workers” means security personnel, dispatchers, train operators, other onboard employees, maintenance and maintenance support personnel, bridge tenders, as well as other appropriate employees of railroad carriers, as defined by the Secretary.

(g) Other Employees.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall issue guidance and best practices for a rail shipper employee security program containing the elements listed under subsection (b) as appropriate.

SEC. --211. WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION PROGRAM.

(a) In General.--Subchapter A of chapter 201 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 20117 the following:

“Sec. 20118. Whistleblower protection for rail security

matters

“(a) Discrimination Against Employee.--No rail carrier engaged in interstate or foreign commerce may discharge a railroad employee or otherwise discriminate against a railroad employee because the employee (or any person acting pursuant to a request of the employee)--

“(1) provided, caused to be provided, or is about to provide or cause to be provided, to the employer or the Federal Government information relating to a reasonably perceived threat, in good faith, to security; or

“(2) provided, caused to be provided, or is about to provide or cause to be provided, testimony before Congress or at any Federal or State proceeding regarding a reasonably perceived threat, in good faith, to security; or

“(3) refused to violate or assist in the violation of any law, rule or regulation related to rail security.

“(b) Dispute Resolution.--A dispute, grievance, or claim arising under this section is subject to resolution under section 3 of the Railway Labor Act (45 U.S.C. 153). In a proceeding by the National Railroad Adjustment Board, a division or delegate of the Board, or another board of adjustment established under section 3 to resolve the dispute, grievance, or claim the proceeding shall be expedited and the dispute, grievance, or claim shall be resolved not later than 180 days after it is filed. If the violation is a form of discrimination that does not involve discharge, suspension, or another action affecting pay, and no other remedy is available under this subsection, the Board, division, delegate, or other board of adjustment may award the employee reasonable damages, including punitive damages, of not more than $20,000.

“(c) Procedural Requirements.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the procedure set forth in section 42121(b)(2)(B) of this title, including the burdens of proof, applies to any complaint brought under this section.

“(d) Election of Remedies.--An employee of a railroad carrier may not seek protection under both this section and another provision of law for the same allegedly unlawful act of the carrier.

“(e) Disclosure of Identity.--

“(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, or with the written consent of the employee, the Secretary of Transportation may not disclose the name of an employee of a railroad carrier who has provided information about an alleged violation of this section.

“(2) The Secretary shall disclose to the Attorney General the name of an employee described in paragraph (1) of this subsection if the matter is referred to the Attorney General for enforcement.”.

(b) Conforming Amendment.--The chapter analysis for chapter 201 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 20117 the following:

“20118. Whistleblower protection for rail security matters.”.

SEC. --212. HIGH HAZARD MATERIAL SECURITY THREAT MITIGATION PLANS.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration) and the Secretary of Transportation, shall require rail carriers transporting a high hazard material, as defined in section --205(g) of this title and of a quantity equal or exceeding the quantities of such material listed in subpart 172.800, title 49, Federal Code of Regulations, to develop a high hazard material security threat mitigation plan containing appropriate measures, including alternative routing and temporary shipment suspension options, to address assessed risks to high consequence targets. The plan, and any information submitted to the Secretary under this section shall be protected as sensitive security information under the regulations prescribed under section 114(s) of title 49, United States Code.

(b) Implementation.--A high hazard material security threat mitigation plan shall be put into effect by a rail carrier for the shipment of high hazardous materials by rail on the rail carrier's right-of-way when the threat levels of the Homeland Security Advisory System are high or severe and specific intelligence of probable or imminent threat exists towards--

(1) a high-consequence target that is within the catastrophic impact zone of a railroad right-of-way used to transport high hazardous material; or

(2) rail infrastructure or operations within the immediate vicinity of a high-consequence target.

(c) Completion and Review of Plans.--

(1) Plans required.--Each rail carrier shall--

(A) submit a list of routes used to transport high hazard materials to the Secretary of Homeland Security within 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act;

(B) develop and submit a high hazard material security threat mitigation plan to the Secretary within 180 days after it receives the notice of high consequence targets on such routes by the Secretary; and

(C) submit any subsequent revisions to the plan to the Secretary within 30 days after making the revisions.

(2) Review and updates.--The Secretary, with assistance of the Secretary of Transportation, shall review the plans and transmit comments to the railroad carrier concerning any revisions the Secretary considers necessary. A railroad carrier shall respond to the Secretary's comments within 30 days after receiving them. Each rail carrier shall update and resubmit its plan for review not less than every 2 years.

(d) Definitions.--In this section:

(1) The term “high-consequence target” means a building, buildings, infrastructure, public space, or natural resource designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security that is viable terrorist target of national significance, the attack of which could result in--

(A) catastrophic loss of life; and

(B) significantly damaged national security and defense capabilities; or

(C) national economic harm.

(2) The term “catastrophic impact zone” means the area immediately adjacent to, under, or above an active railroad right-of-way used to ship high hazard materials in which the potential release or explosion of the high hazard material being transported would likely cause--

(A) loss of life; or

(B) significant damage to property or structures.

(3) The term “rail carrier” has the meaning given that term by section 10102(5) of title 49, United States Code.

SEC. --213. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT.

(a) Memorandum of Agreement.--Similar to the public transportation security annex between the two departments signed on September 8, 2005, within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall execute and develop an annex to the memorandum of agreement between the two departments signed on September 28, 2004, governing the specific roles, delineations of responsibilities, resources and commitments of the Department of Transportation and the Department of Homeland Security, respectively, in addressing railroad transportation security matters, including the processes the departments will follow to promote communications, efficiency, and nonduplication of effort.

(b) Rail Safety Regulations.--Section 20103(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking “safety” the first place it appears, and inserting “safety, including security,”.

SEC. --214. RAIL SECURITY ENHANCEMENTS.

(a) Rail Police Officers.--Section 28101 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--

(1) by inserting “(a) In General.--” before “Under”; and

(2) by striking “the rail carrier” each place it appears and inserting “any rail carrier”.

(b) Review of Rail Regulations.--Within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration), shall review existing rail regulations of the Department of Transportation for the purpose of identifying areas in which those regulations need to be revised to improve rail security.

SEC. --215. PUBLIC AWARENESS.

Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall develop a national plan for public outreach and awareness. Such plan shall be designed to increase awareness of measures that the general public, railroad passengers, and railroad employees can take to increase railroad system security. Such plan shall also provide outreach to railroad carriers and their employees to improve their awareness of available technologies, ongoing research and development efforts, and available Federal funding sources to improve railroad security. Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall implement the plan developed under this section.

SEC. --216. RAILROAD HIGH HAZARD MATERIAL TRACKING.

(a) Wireless Communications.--

(1) In general.--In conjunction with the research and development program established under section --206 and consistent with the results of research relating to wireless tracking technologies, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration), shall develop a program that will encourage the equipping of rail cars transporting high hazard materials (as defined in section --205(g) of this title) in quantities equal to or greater than the quantities specified in subpart 171.800 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, with wireless terrestrial or satellite communications technology that provides--

(A) car position location and tracking capabilities;

(B) notification of rail car depressurization, breach, or unsafe temperature; and

(C) notification of hazardous material release.

(2) Coordination.--In developing the program required by paragraph (1), the Secretary shall--

(A) consult with the Secretary of Transportation to coordinate the program with any ongoing or planned efforts for rail car tracking at the Department of Transportation; and

(B) ensure that the program is consistent with recommendations and findings of the Department of Homeland Security's hazardous material tank rail car tracking pilot programs.

(b) Funding.--Out of funds appropriated pursuant to section 114(u) of title 49, United States Code, there shall be made available to the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007, 2008, and 2009.

SEC. --217. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

(a) Transportation Security Administration Authorization.--Section 114 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end thereof the following:

“(u) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Homeland Security, (Transportation Security Administration) for rail security--

“(1) $206,500,000 for fiscal year 2007;

“(2) $168,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

“(3) $168,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.”.

(b) Department of Transportation.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Transportation to carry out this title and sections 20118 and 24316 of title 49, United States Code, as added by this title--

(1) $225,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(2) $223,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

(3) $223,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.

TITLE --IMPROVED MARITIME SECURITY

SEC. --301. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This title may be cited as the “Maritime and Transportation Security Act of 2006.”

(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this title is as follows:

Title --Improved Maritime Security

Sec. --301. Short title; table of contents.

Sec. --302. Establishment of additional interagency operational centers for port security.

Sec. --303. Area maritime transportation security plan to include salvage response plan.

Sec. --304. Assistance for foreign ports.

Sec. --305. Specific port security initiatives.

Sec. --306. Technical requirements for non-intrusive inspection equipment.

Sec. --307. Random inspection of containers.

Sec. --308. Port security user fee study.

Sec. --309. Port security grants.

Sec. --310. Work stoppages and employee-employer disputes.

Sec. --311. Inspection of car ferries entering from Canada.

SEC. --302. ESTABLISHMENT OF ADDITIONAL INTERAGENCY OPERATIONAL CENTERS FOR PORT SECURITY.

(a) In General.--In order to improve interagency cooperation, unity of command, and the sharing of intelligence information in a common mission to provide greater protection for port and intermodal transportation systems against acts of terrorism, the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall establish interagency operational centers for port security at all high priority ports.

(b) Characteristics.--The interagency operational centers shall--

(1) be based on the most appropriate compositional and operational characteristics of the pilot project interagency operational centers for port security in Miami, Florida, Norfolk/Hampton Roads, Virginia, Charleston, South Carolina, and San Diego, California, and the virtual operation center at the port of New York/New Jersey;

(2) be adapted to meet the security needs, requirements, and resources of the individual port area at which each is operating;

(3) provide for participation by--

(A) representatives of the United States Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Transportation Security Administration, the Department of Defense, and other Federal agencies, as determined to be appropriate by the Secretary of Homeland Security;

(B) representatives of State and local law enforcement or port security agencies and personnel; and

(C) members of the area maritime security committee, as deemed appropriate by the captain of the port;

(4) be incorporated in the implementation of--

(A) maritime transportation security plans developed under section 70103 of title 46, United States Code;

(B) maritime intelligence activities under section 70113 of that title;

(C) short and long range vessel tracking under sections 70114 and 70115 of that title;

(D) secure transportation systems under section 70119 of that title;

(E) the United States Customs and Border Protection's screening and high-risk cargo inspection programs; and

(F) the transportation security incident response plans required by section 70104 of that title.

(c) 2005 Act Report Requirement.--Nothing in this section relieves the Commandant of the Coast Guard from compliance with the requirements of section 807 of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004. The Commandant shall utilize the information developed in making the report required by that section in carrying out the requirements of this section.

(d) Budget and Cost-Sharing Analysis.--Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall transmit to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security a proposed budget analysis for implementing subsection (a), including cost-sharing arrangements with other Federal departments and agencies involved in the interagency operation of the centers.

(e) Security Clearance Assistance.--The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating may assist non-Federal personnel described in subsection (b)(3)(B) or (C) in obtaining expedited appropriate security clearances and in and maintaining their security clearances.

(f) Security Incidents.--During a transportation security incident (as defined in section 70101(6) of title 46, United States Code) involving a port, the Coast Guard Captain of the Port designated by the Commandant of the Coast Guard in each joint operations center for maritime security shall act as the incident commander, unless otherwise directed under the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan established under section 70103 of title 46, United States Code.

SEC. --303. AREA MARITIME TRANSPORTATION SECURITY PLAN TO INCLUDE SALVAGE RESPONSE PLAN.

Section 70103(b)(2) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--

(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as subparagraphs (F) and (G), respectively; and

(2) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following:

“(E) include a salvage response plan--

“(i) to identify salvage equipment capable of restoring operational trade capacity; and

“(ii) to ensure that the flow of cargo through United States ports is re-established as efficiently and quickly as possible after a transportation security incident.”.

SEC. --304. ASSISTANCE FOR FOREIGN PORTS.

(a) In General.--Section 70109 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--

(1) by striking the section heading and inserting the following:

“Sec. 70109. International cooperation and coordination”;

and

(2) by adding at the end the following:

“(c) Foreign Assistance Programs.--

“(1) In general.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Energy, and the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, shall identify foreign assistance programs that could facilitate implementation of port security antiterrorism measures in foreign countries. The Secretary shall establish a program to utilize those programs that are capable of implementing port security antiterrorism measures at ports in foreign countries that the Secretary finds, under section 70108, to lack effective antiterrorism measures.

“(2) Caribbean basin.--The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of State and in consultation with the Organization of American States and the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, shall place particular emphasis on utilizing programs to facilitate the implementation of port security antiterrorism measures at the ports located in the Caribbean Basin, as such ports pose unique security and safety threats to the United States due to--

“(A) the strategic location of such ports between South America and United States;

“(B) the relative openness of such ports; and

“(C) the significant number of shipments of narcotics to the United States that are moved through such ports.

“(d) International Cargo Security Standards.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall enter into negotiations with foreign governments and international organizations, including the International Maritime Organization, the World Customs Organization, and the International Standards Organization, as appropriate--

“(1) to promote standards for the security of containers and other cargo moving within the international supply chain;

“(2) to encourage compliance with minimum technical requirements for the capabilities of nonintrusive inspection equipment, including imaging and radiation detection devices, established under section ------ of the Maritime and Transportation Security Act of 2006 Act;

“(3) to implement the requirements of the container security initiative under section 70117; and

“(4) to implement standards and procedures established under section 70119.”.

(b) Report on Security at Ports in the Caribbean Basin.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security a report on the security of ports in the Caribbean Basin. The report--

(1) shall include--

(A) an assessment of the effectiveness of the measures employed to improve security at ports in the Caribbean Basin and recommendations for any additional measures to improve such security;

(B) an estimate of the number of ports in the Caribbean Basin that will not be secured by January 1, 2007, and an estimate of the financial impact in the United States of any action taken pursuant to section 70110 of title 46, United States Code, that affects trade between such ports and the United States; and

(C) an assessment of the additional resources and program changes that are necessary to maximize security at ports in the Caribbean Basin; and

(2) may be submitted in both classified and redacted formats.

(c) Conforming Amendment.--The chapter analysis for chapter 701 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 70901 and inserting the following:

“70901. International cooperation and coordination”.

SEC. --305. SPECIFIC PORT SECURITY INITIATIVES.

(a) In General.--Chapter 701 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--

(1) by redesignating the second section 70118 (relating to withholding of clearance), as added by section 802(a)(2) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004, as section 70119;

(2) by redesignating the first section 70119 (relating to enforcement by State and local officers), as added by section 801(a) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004, as section 70120;

(3) by redesignating the second section 70119 (relating to civil penalty), as redesignated by section 802(a)(1) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004, as section 70122;

(4) by striking section 70116;

(5) by redesignating sections 70117 through 70122 (as redesignated) as sections 70120 through 70126; and

(5) by inserting after section 70115 the following:

“Sec. 70116. Automated targeting system

“(a) In General.--The Secretary shall develop and maintain an antiterrorism cargo identification and screening system for containerized cargo shipped to the United States either directly or via a foreign port to assess imports and target those imports which pose a high risk of containing contraband.

“(b) 24-hour Advance Notification.--In order to provide the best possible data for the automated targeting system, the Secretary shall require importers shipping goods to the United States via cargo container to supply advanced trade data not later than 24 hours before loading a container under the advance notification requirements under section 484(a)(2) of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1484(a)(2)). The requirement shall apply to goods entered after July 1, 2007.

“(c) Secure Transmission; Confidentiality.--All information required by the Secretary from supply chain partners under this section shall--

“(1) be transmitted in a secure fashion, as determined by the Secretary, so as to protect the information from unauthorized access; and

“(2) shall not be subject to public disclosure under section 552 of title 5.

“(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--

“(1) There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry out the automated targeting system program to identify high-risk oceanborne container cargo for inspection--

“(A) $30,700,000 for fiscal year 2007;

“(B) $33,200,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

“(C) $35,700,000 for fiscal year 2009.

“(2) The amounts authorized by this subsection shall be in addition to any other amounts authorized to be appropriated to carry out that program.

“Sec. 70117. Container security initiative

“(a) In General.--The Secretary shall issue regulations to--

“(1) evaluate and screen cargo documents prior to loading in a foreign port for shipment to the United States, either directly or via a foreign port; and

“(2) inspect high-risk cargo in a foreign port intended for shipment to the United States by physical examination or nonintrusive examination by technological means.

“(b) Implementation.--The Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection shall execute inspection and screening protocols with authorities in foreign ports to ensure that the standards and procedures promulgated under subsection (a) are implemented in an effective manner.

“(c) Application of Container Security Initiative to Other Ports.--

“(1) In general.--The Secretary, through the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, may designate foreign seaports under this section if, with respect to any such seaport, the Secretary determines that--

“(A) the seaport--

“(i) presents a significant level of risk;

“(ii) is a significant port or origin or transshipment, in terms of volume or value, for cargo being imported to the United States; and

“(iii) is potentially capable of validating a secure system of transportation pursuant to section 70119; and

“(B) the Department of State and representatives of the country with jurisdiction over the port have completed negotiations to ensure compliance with the requirements of the container security initiative.

“(2) Coordination with international cargo security standards.--In carrying out paragraph (a), the Secretary shall--

“(A) consult with the Secretary of State concerning progress under section 70109(d); and

“(B) coordinate activities under paragraph (1) with activities conducted under that section.

“(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section--

“(1) $142,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

“(2) $144,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

“(3) $146,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.

“Sec. 70118. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism

validation program

“(a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish a voluntary program to strengthen and improve the overall security of the international supply chain and United States border security.

“(b) Validation; Records Management.--The Secretary shall issue regulations--

“(1) to strengthen the validation process to verify that security programs of members of the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism have been implemented and that the program benefits should continue by providing appropriate guidance to specialists conducting such validations, including establishing what level of review is adequate to determine whether member security practices are reliable, accurate, and effective; and

“(2) to implement a records management system that documents key decisions and significant operational events accurately and in a timely manner, including a reliable system for--

“(A) documenting and maintaining records of all decisions in the application through validation processes, including documentation of the objectives, scope, methodologies, and limitations of validations; and

“(B) tracking member status.

“(b) Human Capital Plan.--Within 6 months after the date of enactment of the Transportation Security Improvement Act of 2005, the Secretary shall complete a human capital plan, that clearly describes how the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program will recruit, train, and retain sufficient staff to conduct the work of the program successfully, including reviewing security profiles, vetting, and conducting validations to mitigate program risk.

“(c) Revalidation.--The Secretary shall establish a process for revalidating C-TPAT participants. Such revalidation shall occur not less frequently than once during every 3-year period following validation.

“(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section not to exceed--

“(1) $60,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

“(2) $65,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and

“(3) $72,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.

“Sec. 70119. Secure systems of transportation

“(a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish a program, to be known as the ‘GreenLane program', to evaluate and certify secure systems of international intermodal transportation--

“(1) to ensure the security and integrity of shipments of goods to the United States from the point at which such goods are initially packed or loaded into a cargo container for international shipment until they reach their ultimate destination; and

“(2) to facilitate the movement of such goods through the entire supply chain through an expedited security and clearance program.

“(b) Program Elements.--In establishing and conducting the program under subsection (a) the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, shall--

“(1) establish standards and procedures for verifying, at the point at which goods are placed in a cargo container for shipping, that the container is free of unauthorized hazardous chemical, biological, or nuclear material and for securely sealing such containers after the contents are so verified;

“(2) ensure that cargo is loaded at a port designated under section 70117 for shipment to the United States;

“(3) develop performance standards to enhance the physical security of shipping containers, including performance standards for container security devices;

“(4) establish standards and procedures for securing cargo and monitoring that security while in transit;

“(5) ensure that cargo complies with additional security criteria established by the Secretary beyond the minimum requirements for C-TPAT participation under section 70118, particularly in the area of access controls;

“(6) establish standards and procedures for allowing the United States Government to ensure and validate compliance with this program; and

“(7) incorporate any other measures the Secretary considers necessary to ensure the security and integrity of international intermodal transport movements.

“(c) Benefits from Participation.--

“(1) Eligibility.--The Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection may by regulation provide for expedited clearance of cargo for an entity that--

“(A) meets or exceeds the standards established under subsection (b); and

“(B) certifies the security of its supply chain not less often than once every 2 years to the Secretary.

“(2) Benefits.--The expedited clearance provided under paragraph (1) to any eligible entity may include--

“(A) the expedited release of GreenLane cargo into destination ports within the United States during all threat levels designated by the Secretary or the Commandant of the Coast Guard;

“(B) reduced or eliminated bonding requirements for GreenLane cargo;

“(C) priority processing for searches;

“(D) further reduced scores in the automated targeting system; and

“(E) streamlined billing of any customs duties or fees.

“(d) Consequences of Lack of Compliance.--

“(1) In general.--Any participant whose security measures and supply chain security practices have been determined by the Secretary to be out of compliance with any requirements of the program shall be denied benefits under the program.

“(2) Right of appeal.--Any participant determined by the Secretary under paragraph (1) not to be in compliance with the requirements of the program may appeal that determination to the Secretary.”.

(b) Conforming Amendments.--

(1) The chapter analysis for chapter 701 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the items following the item relating to section 70116 and inserting the following:

“70116. Automated targeting system

“70117. Container security initiative

“70118. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism validation program

“70119. Secure systems of transportation

“70120. In rem liability for civil penalties and certain costs

“70121. Firearms, arrests, and seizure of property

“70122. Withholding of clearance

“70123. Enforcement by State and local officers

“70124. Container security initiative

“70125. Civil penalty”.

(2) Section 70117(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking “section 70120” and inserting “section 70125”.

(3) Section 70119(a) of such title, as redesignated by subsection (a)(1) of this section, is amended--

(A) by striking “under section 70119,” and inserting “under section 70125,”; and

(B) by striking “under section 70120,” and inserting “under that section,”.

SEC. --306. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-INTRUSIVE INSPECTION EQUIPMENT.

(a) In General.--Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, in consultation with the National Institute of Science and Technology and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, shall initiate a rulemaking--

(1) to establish minimum technical requirements for the capabilities of non-intrusive inspection equipment for cargo, including imaging and radiation devices; and

(2) to ensure that all equipment used can detect risks and threats as determined appropriate by the Secretary.

(b) Endorsements; Sovereignty Conflicts.--In establishing such requirements, the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office shall be careful to avoid the endorsement of products associated with specific companies and the creation of sovereignty conflicts with participating countries.

(c) Radiation Safety.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a plan to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the Senate Committee on Appropriations, the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security, and the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations that--

(1) details the health and safety impacts of nonintrusive inspection technology; and

(2) describes the policy of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection for using nonintrusive inspection equipment.

(d) Final Rule Deadline.--The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office shall issue a final rule under subsection (a) within 1 year after the rulemaking proceeding is initiated.

SEC. --307. RANDOM INSPECTION OF CONTAINERS.

Within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection shall develop and implement a plan, utilizing best practices for empirical scientific research design and random sampling standards for random physical inspection of shipping containers in addition to any targeted or pre-shipment inspection of such containers required by law or regulation or conducted under any other program conducted by the Commissioner. Nothing in this section shall be construed to mean that implementation of the random sampling plan would preclude the additional physical inspection of shipping containers not inspected pursuant to the plan.

SEC. --308. PORT SECURITY USER FEE STUDY.

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall conduct a study of the need for, and feasibility of, establishing a system of oceanborne and port-related intermodal transportation user fees that could be imposed and collected as a dedicated revenue source, on a temporary or continuing basis, to provide necessary funding for the improvement and maintenance of enhanced port security. Within 1 year after date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security that--

(1) contains the Secretary's findings, conclusions, and recommendations (including legislative recommendations if appropriate); and

(2) includes an assessment of the annual amount of customs fees and duties collected through oceanborne and port-related transportation and the amount and percentage of such fees and duties that are dedicated to improve and maintain security.

SEC. --309. PORT SECURITY GRANTS.

(a) Basis for Grants.--Section 70107(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking “for making a fair and equitable allocation of funds” and inserting “based on risk and vulnerability”.

(b) Eligible Costs.--Section 70107(b) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (1) and redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as paragraphs (1) through (3), respectively.

(c) Letters of Intent.--Section 70107(e) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

“(5) Letters of intent.--The Secretary may execute letters of intent to commit funding to port sponsors from the Fund.”.

(d) Operation Safe Commerce.--Section 70107(i) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--

(1) by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) as paragraphs (5) and (6); and

(2) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following:

“(4) Operation Safe Commerce.--

“(A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the [To be supplied] Act, the Secretary shall initiate grant projects that--

“(i) integrate nonintrusive inspection and radiation detection equipment with automatic identification methods for containers, vessels, and vehicles;

“(ii) test physical access control protocols and technologies;

“(iii) create a data sharing network capable of transmitting data required by entities participating in the international supply chain from every intermodal transfer point to the National Targeting Center of the Department; and

“(iv) otherwise further maritime and cargo security, as determined by the Secretary.

“(B) Supply chain security for special container and noncontainerized cargo.--The Secretary shall consider demonstration projects that further the security of the international supply chain for special container cargo, including refrigerated containers, and noncontainerized cargo, including roll-on/roll-off, break-bulk, liquid, and dry bulk cargo.

“(C) Annual report.--Not later than March 1 of each year, the Secretary shall submit a report detailing the results of Operation Safe Commerce to--

“(i) the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation;

“(ii) the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs;

“(iii) the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security;

“(iv) the Senate Committee on Appropriations; and

“(v) the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations.”.

(e) Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall--

(1) direct research, development, test, and evaluation efforts in furtherance of maritime and cargo security;

(2) encourage the ingenuity of the private sector in developing and testing technologies and process innovations in furtherance of these objectives; and

(3) evaluate such technologies.

(f) Coordination.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Undersecretary for Science and Technology, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary for Policy, the Director of Cargo Security Policy, and the Chief Financial Officer, shall ensure that--

(1) research, development, test, and evaluation efforts funded by the Department in furtherance of maritime and cargo security are coordinated to avoid duplication of efforts; and

(2) the results of such efforts are shared throughout the Department, as appropriate.

SEC. --310. WORK STOPPAGES AND EMPLOYEE-EMPLOYER DISPUTES.

Section 70101(6) is amended by inserting after “area.” the following: “In this paragraph, the term ‘economic disruption' does not include a work stoppage or other nonviolent employee-related action resulting from an employee-employer dispute.”.

SEC. --311. INSPECTION OF CAR FERRIES ENTERING FROM CANADA.

Within 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, in coordination with the Secretary of State, and their Canadian counterparts, shall develop a plan for the inspection of passengers and vehicles before such passengers board, or such vehicles are loaded onto, a ferry bound for a United States port.

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Senate amendment submitted

May 1, 2006