The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has partially reversed a decision to suspend the TSA PreCheck airport security programme due to staffing shortages caused by the partial US government shutdown. However, a DHS official confirmed that the Global Entry programme would remain suspended.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced on Sunday that 'TSA PreCheck remains operational with no change for the travelling public.' The reversal came after air transport groups voiced opposition, with Chris Sununu of Airlines for America stating that travellers were being 'used as a political football'. TSA PreCheck has around 20 million enrolled users, while Global Entry is used by over 10 million pre-approved international travellers.
The partial government shutdown began on 14 February after Democrats and the White House failed to reach a funding deal for DHS. Democrats on the House homeland security committee criticised the move, accusing the administration of 'ruining your travel on purpose'. Senator Andy Kim said the administration was trying to 'weaponise our government' for political leverage.
Geoff Freeman of the US Travel Association urged the restoration of Global Entry, noting that the programmes are funded by user fees and strengthen security. A similar shutdown last year caused over $6bn in losses across the travel industry.
