New Bill Would Create Vetted Military Freight Carrier Registry

Key Details Federal lawmakers are pushing legislation to establish a screened registry of trucking companies authorized to haul U.S. Department of Defense cargo. The proposed "Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act of 2026," introduced by Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), aims to block Chinese-backed carriers from accessing military freight contracts. The measure would require the FMCSA to create the "Secure Defense Freight Carrier Registry" within one year of passage. Why It Matters Currently, U.S. law does not prohibit Chinese military or CCP-backed companies from bidding on defense transportation contracts. Officials warn that adversaries have exploited truck drivers handling military cargo to access sensitive technology. The legislation would close this national security gap by requiring enhanced vetting of all carriers, including prime contractors, subcontractors, and owner-operators. What's Required Approved carriers must meet all FMCSA safety regulations and DOD standards, then pass enhanced security screening. Companies would need to certify they have no ties to the Chinese Communist Party or threatening Chinese entities. Rescreening would be mandatory every two years to maintain authorization. Next Steps Stafanik and Cotton are working to include this bill in the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, which Congress considers annually.