What Act did Congress pass in 2002 to enhance maritime security?

The correct answer is the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), which was enacted in 2002 to significantly strengthen maritime security in the United States. The MTSA was a direct response to the vulnerabilities highlighted by the events of September 11, 2001, and aimed to improve the security of the nation's ports and waterways.

This legislation established a framework for maritime security by requiring ports to develop security plans, implementing measures for access control to secure areas, and enhancing coordination among federal, state, and local agencies to address maritime threats. Moreover, the Act mandates the assessment of security risks at ports and the transportation of hazardous materials by water, making it a cornerstone of U.S. maritime security policy.

By focusing on these aspects, the MTSA effectively addressed related security concerns while also ensuring compliance with international maritime security standards set by the International Maritime Organization. This foundational legislation underpins many of the security protocols currently in place in the maritime industry, making its significance prominent in the context of maritime enforcement and protection.