Sentence:  In renewing passes, the Press Office and the Secret Service check how often the reporters have entered the White House in order to establish the need for such a credential. Now there are approximately 800 <WSD>hard pass</WSD> holders. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  An enduring (non-temporary) clearance to enter the West Wing of the White House, signified by a laminated card.