Here is a question about the ol' TWIC that I have, and it relates to whether or not it is really necessary. Now, of course, if the Admin says that it is required, then it is. That said, my understanding about having a TWIC is to allow unescorted personnel to have access in a secure area. That much I know, and I have one. I also know that there are provisions to profide escorts in secure areas for those that do not have a TWIC. I have done some work offshore where others going out on the same project did not have their TWIC cards. The security at the shoreside facility had me escort them to the crew boat that took us all offshore, and then again escort them back to the gate.
Could the escort system also work for seamen joining vessels? I am sure that there are many foreign seamen that don't have a TWIC card, and I have seen them escorted to and from their vessels when I am out on the waterfront doing my thing.
I am just stirring the pot a bit here. I also know that Congressional mandates are just about always poorly instituted and enforced. It is also easier for companies and other institutions to take the easy way and just demand that personnel get their TWIC cards. In the long run, I am seeing more access to port areas now with the TWIC than there was before the program; especially in the offshore sector. Before getting TWIC cards, many of the offshore facilities were hard to get in and out of, even for folks that had to. Now, show the TWIC and that is all they need.
At least now, the domestic airports that I use recognize the TWIC card.