The US Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston issued a bulletin explaining that reports have been received of malfunctioning internal antenna on some Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) cards. These defective cards are functionally unrecognizable in non-contact TWIC validation units. If the internal antenna is damaged and the holder of the TWIC card needs this feature to gain unescorted access to an MTSA facility or vessel, the holder should contact the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and obtain a replacement card. The old card must be surrendered for deactivation when applying for a new card. The new card is typically available within ten days. Facilities may authorize a card holder up to 37 days of unescorted access while awaiting receipt of the replacement card. MSIB 15-10 (10/13/10).
(Source: Bryant’s Maritime News)