scope:

The provisions of this Instruction apply throughout the USCG and are designed to assist Headquarters and field activities in planning and accomplishing a systematic program for protecting official record material. All users are directed to follow the provision of references (a) through (e). The Records Management Program is subject to mandates of the National Archives and Records Administration; see www.archives.gov.

PURPOSE. This Instruction is to inform departing officials and employees of established policy guidance for the protection of United States Coast Guard (USCG) records from unauthorized removal. Upon departure from the USCG, all information received, created, or compiled by USCG personnel in conducting business, to include email, is the property of the U.S. Government and may not be removed when leaving USCG service. There are criminal penalties for the unlawful removal or destruction of Federal records (18 U.S.C. 2071 and 36 CFR 1228.102).