WASHINGTON (AP) — The Department of Homeland Security is suspending TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry airport security programs as the partial government shutdown continues.
These programs are designed to help registered travelers move through security lines faster. Suspending them could cause headaches for passengers.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement that “a shutdown would have serious real-world consequences.” She also said, “The Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are prioritizing regular travelers at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and privilege escorts.”
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The partial government shutdown began on February 14 after Democrats and the White House failed to reach an agreement on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have been demanding changes in immigration operations that are at the center of President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign.
Democrats on the House Homeland Security Committee criticized the decision regarding airport security.
They said on social media that the government was “disparaging plans to make travel smoother and safer” and accused them of “deliberately sabotaging your trip”.
