Cargo Security Provisions Included in DHS Authorization Bill Approved by House

The House of Representatives has approved and sent to the Senate a bill (H.R. 2825) to authorize the Department of Homeland Security that includes the following provisions.

- requires DHS to submit to Congress every three years a strategic plan to address threats to the international supply chain

- directs port operators to have a thorough plan for cybersecurity and creates a mechanism for port operators to share current cyber threat information and best practices

- directs DHS to fully implement the Air Cargo Advance Screening program

- directs the Transportation Security Administration to issue standards to be used to certify third-party canines for use in the air cargo sector in order to expand the number of canines being used for cargo screening

- codifies the period of performance for grants awarded under the Port Security Grant Program at 36 months and authorizes $200 million for this program through fiscal year 2022