Reducing Crime and Terrorism at America's Seaports Act of 2005

The Reducing Crime and Terrorism at America’s Seaports Act of 2005 (S. 378) aims to strengthen security at U.S. ports by establishing strict federal penalties for criminal and terrorist activities on the water. The bill makes it a federal crime to enter secure port areas under false pretenses, disobey law enforcement orders to stop a vessel, or provide false information during a ship boarding.

For the general public, this legislation increases safety by targeting the transport of dangerous materials—such as explosives or biological weapons—and imposing severe consequences for those who intentionally pollute navigable waters or damage maritime facilities. Additionally, the bill cracks down on port-related bribery and the theft of interstate cargo, seeking to ensure that the flow of goods into the country remains secure and uninterrupted.