The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun the initial enrollment for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) for the ports of New London CT, Bay City MI, and Point Comfort TX, according to information published in the Federal Register.
TWIC enrollment begins in New London and Bay City April 16, 2008, and Point Comfort April 17, 2008.
The TSA program requires a background check for anyone who has unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities and vessels. The TWIC credential is valid for five years and requires a fee of $132.50. However, workers with current, comparable background checks, including a hazardous materials endorsement on a commercial driver license, Merchant Mariners document, or Free and Secure Trade (FAST) credential, will pay a discounted fee of $105.25.
Other ports conducting the program announced earlier can be found online at the TSA Web site tsagov.