Access Control
& Security Systems

The Senate last week passed a maritime security bill that requires all 361 U.S. seaports to develop and implement security plans and procedures. It also creates a sea marshal program, marine anti-terrorism teams and new standards to make containers tamper-proof.

The bill is on the President's desk after the Senate approved the bill 95-0 and the House passed it with a voice vote. President Bush will now determine how much funding is necessary to get meet the bill's provisions.

Among other provisions, the bill requires every seaport to create a security committee involving representatives from federal, state local and private agencies. It also requires background checks on all workers with access to sensitive areas.

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