The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has partially reversed plans to suspend two popular trusted traveler programs.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced early Sunday that, due to the ongoing partial government shutdown, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry will not be available. She framed the decision as a matter of workforce and resource management, as her department has been temporarily cut off from federal funding.
But within hours, the TSA clarified that PreCheck, which allows members to undergo expedited security screenings, will remain up and running.
“At this time, TSA PreCheck remains operational with no change for the traveling public,” the agency wrote on social media. “As staffing constraints arise, TSA will evaluate on a case by case basis and adjust operations accordingly.”
According to The New York Times, Global Entry remains suspended. The program was not operating at several airports as of late Sunday, including Boston and Austin, Texas, ABC News reported.
Global Entry is administered by Customers and Border Protection and allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to clear customs faster than the general public.
The plan to suspend PreCheck drew strong backlash on social media and from Democratic members of Congress, who blocked funding to DHS in hopes of implementing stricter federal oversight of another department branch, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Several Democrats argued that PreCheck and Global Entry actually reduce the workload of TSA agents at airports, and said suspending the programs was a pressure tactic from the Trump administration.
Despite the pause in funding, most DHS functions are continuing as normal. Many TSA, ICE, and Customs staff are considered essential and must continue to report to work.
TSA also said over the weekend that courtesy escorts for members of Congress have been suspended.
