The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has selected MorphoTrust USA as the prime contractor for its new Universal Enrollment Service (UES), which will transition multiple programmes into a consolidated service with convenient locations for individuals requiring enrolment and registration for programmes serviced by TSA. The checks include the capture of biometric (facial pictures and fingerprints) and biographic data to ensure that individuals seeking access to critical segments of the US transportation system, infrastructure, or sensitive materials do not pose a threat to national security.

MorphoTrust says the award furthers its commitment to simplify, protect, and secure the lives of the American people. As programmes such as the Transportation Worker Identity Credential (TWIC) and Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment Program (HTAP) begin transitioning into the UES program, MorphoTrust will provide applicant services via the web, telephone, and in person at hundreds of centres - including in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and US Territories. 

“MorphoTrust is honoured and pleased the TSA has entrusted our team with this significant opportunity to increase convenience for transportation workers while enhancing the security of Americans,” says Robert Eckel, CEO, MorphoTrust. “We have many years of experience delivering successful systems where there is a need for the vetting of individuals, and where multiple biometrics such as face, fingerprints, and iris are required. The system we will manage for TSA can be configured to meet the agency’s evolving security and operational needs, and will add convenience for workers through more locations and a one-stop-shop approach.”

According to MorphoTrust the TSA intends to move existing enrolment programs to UES as contracts expire, new regulations and policies are implemented, new legislation is enacted, or as new programmes and initiatives become active. The first programme expected to transition to UES is TWIC.  The base UES contract is for one year, with four options for one year each. The total contract value for five years is estimated to be US$248 million. At its peak, the programme is expected to enrol more than 600,000 applicants per year.