DHS will suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry as shutdown continues

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 directly affects the expedited airport security screening services that are typically available to travelers enrolled in these programs. The suspension is a consequence of the funding lapse impacting various government operations, including those of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (The Washington Post, AP News, NPR, The Boston Globe, Fox News, Reuters). TSA PreCheck allows travelers to pass through security more quickly, while Global Entry facilitates expedited customs screening for international travelers. With the suspension of these services, travelers will no longer have access to the expedited lanes that these programs provide, which is expected to lead to longer wait times at airports (AP News, NPR, Fox News). The DHS has not specified the duration of the suspension, indicating that it is contingent on the resolution of the government shutdown (Reuters). The action taken by DHS highlights the broader disruptions caused by the shutdown, affecting essential services that many travelers rely on for convenience and efficiency during their journeys (The Boston Globe). 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 (NPR, Fox News).