MARINE SAFETY INFORMATION BULLETIN

[MSIB # 22-12]

December 26, 2012

TWIC UPDATES FOR EED APPLICATIONS AND UNESCORTED ACCESS


Due to the high volume of requests for Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWICs, significant delays are being experienced by TWIC holders attempting to contact the various Transportation Security Administration (TSA) call centers. TWIC holders are requested to refrain from ordering an EED TWIC until the TWIC holder`s existing credential falls within four months of its expiration date. If your card expires within that 4 month time frame, or for any TWIC related issues call the TWIC Help Desk at 1 - 866 - DHS - TWIC (1-866-347-8942).

The Coast Guard has issued additional policy guidance in CG-FAC Policy Letter No. 12-04 dated December 19, 2012 which states that, due to delays in processing requests, it is possible that an individual who has applied and paid for an initial TWIC, a TWIC renewal, or reported their TWIC as lost, stolen, or damaged may not receive a replacement within the 7 days allowed for unrestricted access to secure areas. A TWIC holder who cannot present a TWIC because it has been lost, damaged, or stolen, and has reported as such, may be granted an additional 30 days of unescorted access by the owner/operators of MTSA regulated vessels, facilities, and OCS facilities, for a total of 37 calendar days, provided that all requirements for access control under 33 CFR 104.265(c)(2), 105.255(c)(2), 106.260(c)(2) are met in addition to the following:

1) The individual provides proof that a replacement TWIC has been ordered.

2) The individual’s first name, last name and application identification (if known) are provided the Vessel Security Officer (VSO), or the Facility Security Officer (FSO).

This provision to authorize unescorted access may also be extended to individuals who have applied for a TWIC renewal prior to its expiration. The Coast Guard recommends FSOs and VSOs have a means to identify individuals who are or were granted temporary unescorted access based on this policy, and when the 37 days of authorized unescorted access has expired.

Any questions and concerns can be directed to Sector Delaware Bay Facilities/Containers Inspections Branch at (215) 271-4864.



K. MOORE
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Captain of the Port, Delaware Bay