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TSA and Coast Guard Extend Deadline for TWIC Based on Industry Feedback

News & Happenings

May 2, 2008

Photo of a cargo ship at a port. The U.S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced that the final compliance date for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program will be April 15, 2009, which reflects a realignment of the Sept. 25, 2008 compliance date set in the final rule.

The seven month extension is a direct result of collaboration with port officials and industry, and realigns the enrollment period with the original intent of the TWIC final rule.

Questions & Answers

Why is the TWIC national compliance date being extended?

DHS is realigning the national compliance date to April 15, 2009, allowing for an 18 month enrollment period as stated in the TWIC final rule. This seven month extension is a direct result of collaboration with industry and brings the enrollment period back in line with the original intent of the TWIC final rule.

Will there be ports that have to comply this year?

Owners and operators of facilities located within Captain of the Port Zones Boston, Northern New England and Southeastern New England are required to comply by October 15, 2008. In all cases, the Coast Guard will provide a minimum of 90 days notice prior to enforcement of these regulations.

How were the first ports chosen?

The Coast Guard Captain of the Port Zones of Boston, Northern New England and Southeastern New England were selected based on geographic proximity to each other favorable conditions that allow quick implementation.