TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Suspended
The Department of Homeland Security has suspended both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs due to the ongoing partial government shutdown, creating longer lines and more stressful experiences for frequent travelers. The suspension affects millions of travelers who rely on expedited screening for domestic and international trips.
- This marks the first instance of a nationwide suspension of these trusted traveler programs due to a government shutdown; in previous funding gaps, the expedited lanes remained open. - The suspension impacts a large pool of vetted travelers, including over 20 million members in TSA PreCheck and more than 12 million in Global Entry. - According to the Department of Homeland Security, the shutdown is an emergency measure to conserve resources by redirecting staff to standard screening lanes to prioritize the general traveling population. - The partial shutdown affects approximately 13% of the DHS workforce, with around 95% of TSA employees—about 63,000 agents—required to work without pay. - Members who paid for these services will lose their benefits during the suspension; a five-year TSA PreCheck membership costs up to $85, while Global Entry is $120 for five years. - All travelers, including those previously in expedited programs, should anticipate longer lines as they will be required to use standard security screening. - A previous 43-day government shutdown resulted in an estimated $6.1 billion in economic losses to the travel industry and related sectors.
