TSA Says Airports Can Finally Throw Away Old Background Checks
Published Date: 1/15/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting January 15, 2025, airport and aircraft operators only need to keep criminal history records for a worker’s current security check, not old ones. They can store these records on paper or electronically, making life simpler and clearer for everyone involved. This update affects anyone handling security checks at airports and aircraft companies, with no extra costs or deadlines beyond the effective date.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Keep Only Current CHRC Records
Starting January 15, 2025, airport and aircraft operators must keep only the criminal-history records (including the CHRC application) associated with an individual's current criminal history records check (CHRC), CHRC certification, or authorization to perform a covered function — they are not required to retain records associated with previous CHRCs or prior employment investigations.
Potential Cost Savings for Operators
TSA states that clarifying CHRC recordkeeping to require retention only of current CHRC records and permitting electronic storage may result in cost savings for airport and aircraft operators by reducing burdens associated with keeping numerous historical CHRC files.
Paper or Electronic Storage Allowed
The rule clarifies that the required CHRC records may be stored in electronic form or on paper, 'in electronic or paper form, as authorized by TSA.' This explicitly permits electronic document storage for current CHRC records.
180-Day Record Retention Rule
The rule requires that the CHRC records an operator keeps for an individual be maintained until 180 days after the termination of the individual's unescorted access authority or authority to perform a covered function, after which the criminal record must be destroyed.
Direct Employees Must Handle CHRC Records
The rule states that only direct airport operator or aircraft operator employees may physically maintain, control, and, as appropriate, destroy the fingerprint application and criminal record for CHRCs.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12272 — Resin Acids, Esters With Glycerol in Pesticide Formulations; Exemption From the Requirement for a Tolerance
The EPA just made it official: resin acids mixed with glycerol can be used in pesticides on crops without worrying about residue limits. This means farmers, food makers, and pesticide companies get a smoother ride—no more setting max residue levels for this ingredient. The rule kicks in June 18, 2026, and if anyone wants to object, they have until August 17, 2026 to speak up.
2026-12376 — Final Waivers and Extensions of the Project Periods With Funding for the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program and the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Training and Technical Assistance Center
The Department of Education is giving 43 American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services projects and one Training and Technical Assistance Center extra time and money to keep helping through September 30, 2027. They’re waiving rules that usually limit projects to five years so these programs can continue their important work without interruption. This extension starts July 20, 2026, making sure support for American Indian communities stays strong and steady.
2026-12324 — Reducing Bureaucracy and Burden for Native American Programs
This new rule cuts out old, confusing paperwork and rules for Native American programs, making it easier for tribes and Native organizations to get grants and support. It affects Native communities across the U.S. and kicks in on August 17, 2026, helping save time and reduce hassle without changing funding amounts. Basically, it’s a smoother, faster way to boost Native-led projects and community growth.
2026-12277 — Special Conditions: Honeywell Aerospace US LLC, Dassault Aviation Model Falcon 900EX Airplane; Electronic System Security Protection From Unauthorized External Access
Honeywell Aerospace is upgrading the Dassault Falcon 900EX with new digital systems that connect the plane to outside networks like the internet and wireless devices. Because this is a new kind of tech for airplanes, the FAA is setting special safety rules to keep hackers out and protect the plane’s electronics. These rules take effect June 18, 2026, and Honeywell must follow them to keep flights safe without extra costs for passengers.
2026-12307 — Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder Fishery; Quota Transfer From North Carolina to Virginia
North Carolina is sharing part of its 2026 summer flounder fishing quota with Virginia to help both states meet their fishing goals. This change starts June 17, 2026, and lasts through the end of the year, making sure the fishery stays balanced and fair. Commercial fishers in both states will see updated limits, keeping the summer flounder fishery healthy and on track.
2026-12273 — Special Conditions: Honeywell Aerospace US LLC, Dassault Aviation Model Falcon 900EX Airplane; Electronic System Security Protection From Unauthorized Internal Access
The FAA is setting new safety rules for the Dassault Falcon 900EX airplane, upgraded by Honeywell Aerospace, to protect its electronic systems from unauthorized internal access. These rules make sure the plane’s digital networks stay safe and secure, matching modern tech needs. The new standards take effect immediately, and folks can send their thoughts by August 3, 2026.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-00737 — Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustment
The National Credit Union Administration is raising the maximum fines it can charge to keep up with inflation, starting January 15, 2025. This means anyone who breaks the rules could face bigger penalties than before. These updates happen every year to make sure fines stay fair and effective.
Next: 2025-00786 — Inflation Adjustment of Civil Monetary Penalties
Starting January 15, 2025, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is raising certain fines to keep up with inflation. This means anyone who breaks OFAC rules might pay higher penalties, helping keep the rules strong and fair. These updates happen every year to make sure fines don’t lose their punch over time.