The Department of Homeland Security has resumed the Global Entry program as of Wednesday, following a pause of just over two weeks due to the partial government shutdown.
Global Entry is a service designed for pre-approved, low-risk travelers, allowing them to swiftly navigate U.S. entry points using expedited kiosks, available for a fee. This program significantly reduces wait times at airports and other ports of entry.
Initially, Homeland Security announced on February 22 that the Global Entry program would be on hold as long as the government shutdown persisted.
During the suspension, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers who usually manage Global Entry were redirected to handle the processing of all incoming travelers.
This past weekend, travelers at several U.S. airports encountered extended security lines, sparking worries over potential disruptions during the busy spring travel season due to the shutdown.
The shutdown commenced on February 14, stemming from a stalemate between Democrats and the White House over funding for Homeland Security. The disagreement involves proposed changes to immigration practices that are a key part of President Donald Trump’s deportation efforts.
The problems during the latest shutdown are renewing attention to ways to prevent airport security operations from being slowed during political impasses, including allowing more airports to outsource security screening while maintaining TSA oversight.
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