Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs because of a partial government shutdown. This suspension may cause longer wait times for travelers, and Democrats argue the decision is made intentionally.
Key Facts
- DHS has paused TSA PreCheck and Global Entry due to a partial government shutdown.
- TSA PreCheck lets domestic travelers go through security faster without removing shoes, belts, or laptops.
- Global Entry provides quicker customs checks for approved international travelers.
- There are 20 million members in the TSA PreCheck program who typically wait less than 10 minutes at security.
- The Global Entry program costs $120 for five years; TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for five years.
- The partial government shutdown started on February 14 because of disagreements over new restrictions for immigration officers.
- The shutdown affects about 13 percent of the federal civilian workforce and involves DHS agencies.
