Summary

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is a security measure designed to ensure that secure areas within the nation’s maritime transportation service are not accessed by individuals who may pose a threat or cause harm. Developed by Congress through the Maritime Transportation Security Act 2002 (MTSA), TWIC is administered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

Background

The MTSA authorizes the use of a biometric (fingerprint) based identification card for all individuals requiring unescorted access into the secure areas of facilities and vessels regulated under the bill.  These individuals must present a TWIC card. Merchant mariners and individuals requiring unescorted access to Certain Dangerous Cargo (CDC) facilities must also present a TWIC card.

Due to the regular shipment of bulk fertilizers by barge and vessel, many TFI members, including manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers, have facilities regulated under the MTSA.  In addition, two fertilizer products are classified as CDC, which brings many retail and wholesale warehouses on the nation’s inland water system under the jurisdiction of the MTSA.  As a result, many of the Institute's members are subject to TWIC requirements.