Strengthening supply chains: TIA celebrates passage of CTPAT Pilot Program Act

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) - the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce –announces the successful passage of S. 794, CTPAT Pilot Program Act of 2023, in the House of Representatives. The legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

This landmark legislation mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement a five-year pilot program assessing the inclusion of certain third-party logistics providers in the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program. This DHS initiative aims to enhance port security, combat terrorism and prevent supply chain breaches.

TIA expresses its gratitude to the leadership of Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Tom Carper (D-Del.) for bill introduction and Senate leadership for unanimous support, as well as to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green (R-Tenn.) for their pivotal roles in advancing this important initiative. Including Department of Transportation non-asset-based 3PLs in the C-TPAT program is a crucial step toward improving legitimate trade facilitation and strengthening supply chain security.

“Today marks a significant milestone for the brokerage community as we celebrate the bipartisan support to enhance the crucial role 3PLs play in supply chain security,” said Anne Reinke, TIA president & CEO. “This legislation fosters a collaborative approach between the government and private sector in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities, ultimately building a more secure and resilient supply chain.”

With the rise of near-shoring and cross-border trade, heightened vigilance at the border is more essential than ever. TIA is committed to enhancing the competitiveness of the 3PL industry by driving cost savings, responsiveness, customer satisfaction and innovation – benefits that positively impact the overall trade and security landscape.

The passage of S. 794 demonstrates a critical step toward fostering a competitive marketplace, enhancing trade facilitation and improving trade process efficiency in the face of emerging challenges, including technological advancements and evolving security threats.

As TIA looks ahead, we remain dedicated to ensuring the successful implementation of this pilot program and to continuing our advocacy for a stronger supply chain.