Homeland Security Committee seeks AAPA port feedback on forthcoming bill

In advance of its introduction, the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) received a discussion draft of forthcoming port security legislation. The Majority staff of the House Homeland Security, Maritime & Transportation Subcommittee has requested feedback from ports on the bill.

In summary, the bill, titled the “Port Security and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025,” would:

• Designate up to 30 U.S. ports as Critical Homeland Security Ports based on trade volume, economic impact, and security risks;

• Require Cyber threat hunts must be conducted at each designated port at least once every three years to assess vulnerabilities in infrastructure, foreign equipment, and software;

• Mandate that all new Foreign cranes must be inspected and “certified secure” by DHS before deployment at designated critical ports;

• Exempt cyber threat hunt results from public disclosure laws with information security measures; and

• Require reports to Congress on cybersecurity efforts, inspections, and waiver approvals for private cybersecurity services.

It is important to note that this bill is separate and distinct from H.R. 1165 the “Port Crane Security and Inspection Act of 2025” introduced by Subcommittee Chair Carlos Gimenez (R-FL28). AAPA has strongly opposed similar reactionary legislation in the past and will continue to do so.

Please submit feedback to Holden Haley, Legislative Associate. AAPA will accept feedback until 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 13th before analyzing, developing a position, and sharing with the Committee staff.