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WASHINGTON (AP) — In the midst of an ongoing partial government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced the suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs, both of which are designed to expedite airport security processes for enrolled travelers.
This suspension is expected to result in increased wait times and potential frustration for travelers who rely on these services to navigate security lines quickly and efficiently.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the impact of the shutdown, stating, “Shutdowns have serious real-world consequences.” She further explained that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are focusing their resources on managing the general traveling public at airports and ports of entry, leading to the temporary halt of these expedited services.
The partial government shutdown began Feb. 14 after Democrats and the White House were unable to reach a deal on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have been demanding changes to immigration operations that are core to President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign.
Democrats on the House Committee on Homeland Security criticized the decision about airport security.
They said on social media that the administration was “kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure” and accused them of “ruining your travel on purpose.”