The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a temporary halt to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs amid the ongoing government shutdown. This suspension affects two major trusted-traveler initiatives utilized by millions of frequent flyers.
Details of the Suspension
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem communicated the decision, stating that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) will prioritize general travelers. As a result, existing courtesy and special privilege escorts will be suspended.
The suspension will begin on Sunday at 6 a.m. ET, following the inability of Congress to agree on funding linked to immigration enforcement policies. This development marks a significant shift in how the ongoing partial government shutdown affects travelers, jeopardizing expedited security checks and fast-track customs processing.
Impact on Travelers
- Suspension of TSA PreCheck lanes will require enrolled travelers to undergo standard security screening.
- Global Entry, which streamlines customs for returning international travelers, may also face disruptions.
- Initial feedback suggests potential increases in wait times at customs and passport control.
Currently, TSA PreCheck has over 20 million active members, while Global Entry has more than 12 million enrolled travelers. Membership fees for TSA PreCheck range from $76.75 to $85 for five years, whereas Global Entry charges $120 for the same duration. Together, these programs serve over 40 million vetted airline passengers.
Political Context
The government shutdown stems from a standoff between Democrats and Republicans over immigration policies. Democrats seek new regulations for agencies like ICE and CBP, fueled by a recent incident involving federal officers in Minneapolis. However, Republicans predominantly oppose these proposals and advocate for stricter measures against sanctuary cities.
Meanwhile, nearly 63,000 TSA agents are continuing to work without pay amidst the shutdown. Secretary Noem commented that the DHS is making challenging workforce decisions to alleviate the impact of this political deadlock on public services.
Previous Shutdown Effects
Historically, previous government shutdowns have led to operational disruptions, including longer airport lines and enrollment process delays. However, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry services remained operational. This current shutdown’s total suspension of these programs represents a first in recent history.
As the situation evolves, further information regarding the full impact and duration of the suspension will be crucial for travelers relying on these trusted-traveler programs.
