The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently issued a directive that will allow certain MSP Airport employees returning from a leave of absence, and whose badge is currently expired, to get a new badge and return to work while their background check is still in process.

The “alternative measure” provided by the TSA is good news for MSP employers, as it aims to expedite the return of furloughed aviation workers and is related to the anticipated return of passenger traffic as the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out over time.

This change only applies to airport employees who were badged but were placed on a non-work or leave-of-absence status due to COVID-19 on or after March 1, 2020, AND their badge expired while they were on leave, AND are now being recalled to work by the same company. This does not apply to former badge holders whose employment was severed.

From now through June 30, 2021, individuals who meet those criteria can have a badge issued to them – and walk away from the MSP Badging Office (pictured above) with a new badge – prior to the completion of their background check. Companies will be billed the appropriate fees.

The employees WILL still undergo a new background check unless their badge is within the 30-day expiration window. If there are any discrepancies found during the background check, working employees’ badges could be suspended.

For more information about the badging process, visit this page at MyMSPConnet.com.