Port Fined for Security Breaches

The Coast Guard recently slapped the Port of Beaumont with $16,000 in fines for three incidents of security breaches. All three incidents, considered violations of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, occurred during the last year, Beaumont Enterprise reported. Citing port security, details of how the three violations occurred were at a minimum. The Maritime Transportation Security Act outlines security procedures ports must follow, depending on the terror threat level at a given time. The act includes measures such as securing dangerous materials, controlling access to facilities and adequately screening visitors. Federal law specifies fine amounts. The Coast Guard routinely and randomly inspects area facilities, and the agency also requires that facilities themselves report suspicious activities. The Coast Guard will continue to perform random checks at the port as officials work toward full compliance. (Source: Beaumont Enterprise)