US DHS to pause TSA PreCheck and Global Entry as shutdown continues, Washington Post reports

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to the ongoing partial government shutdown. This decision affects the expedited airport security screening services that are typically available to travelers enrolled in these programs. The suspension is a direct consequence of the funding lapse that has impacted various government operations, including those of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). According to reports from multiple news outlets, including the Washington Post, AP News, NPR, The Boston Globe, and Fox News, the DHS's action to pause these programs is part of broader disruptions caused by the shutdown. TSA PreCheck allows travelers to pass through security more quickly, while Global Entry facilitates expedited customs screening for international travelers. The suspension of these services is expected to create longer wait times at airports, as travelers will no longer have access to the expedited lanes that these programs provide. The DHS has not specified how long the suspension will last, as it is contingent on the resolution of the government shutdown. The agency's decision highlights the impact of the funding impasse on essential services that many travelers rely on for convenience and efficiency during their journeys. As the situation develops, travelers are advised to stay informed about the status of these programs and plan accordingly for potential delays at airport security checkpoints.