Congressman Brad Knott announced on Apr. 20 the introduction of H.R. 8267, known as the Securing American Freight, Enforcement, and Reliability in Transport Act (SAFER in Transport Act), which aims to strengthen protections for the nation’s freight and transportation systems.
The legislation is intended to address vulnerabilities in U.S. supply chains by closing loopholes that have allowed criminals to exploit weaknesses in enforcement and outdated detection systems. Supporters say the bill would improve security for cargo, jobs, families, and the economy.
The SAFER Transport Act would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to create a Freight Fraud and Theft Advisory Committee tasked with identifying risks and proposing solutions. It also calls for a formal agreement between DOT and the Department of Justice (DOJ) on handling information related to freight fraud. The act further directs enhanced collaboration between federal agencies such as FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regarding cabotage restrictions on foreign carriers.
“For too long, criminals and bad actors have exploited weak enforcement and outdated systems to target our freight network,” said Congressman Knott. “The SAFER Transport Act restores integrity, builds real guardrails, and gives our drivers and businesses the tools to stop fraud and theft. When we secure America’s roads, we protect cargo, jobs, families, and our nation’s economy.” The bill also proposes modernizing fraud detection systems within FMCSA while introducing criminal penalties for registration fraud linked to illegal operations.
Senator Todd Young has introduced companion legislation in the Senate supporting similar measures. Several organizations back this effort: Chris Spear of American Trucking Associations said: “The SAFER in Transport Act would implement critical steps towards modernization… We applaud Rep. Knott’s leadership to protect hardworking truckers…” Chris Burroughs from Transportation Intermediaries Association stated: “The SAFER Transport Act takes critical action… We are grateful to Congressman Knott for his leadership in strengthening supply chain security…” Sarah Gilmore from Retail Industry Leaders Association added: “RILA appreciates Congressman Knott’s leadership… Leading retailers are supportive of these bicameral efforts…” Dorothy Capers from C.H. Robinson said: “C.H. Robinson fully supports the SAFER Transport Act … We appreciate Congressman Knott’s leadership in advancing these important solutions…”
Knott is also a cosponsor of H.R.2853—the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025—which addresses retail crime issues alongside his work on transportation security reforms.
In recent political history,Brad Knott defeated Frank Pierce during the 2024 general election with 58.6% of votes.
