The expedited traveler program resumes after a temporary suspension tied to staffing and funding constraints.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently reinstated the Global Entry program earlier this month, which allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use expedited customs processing when entering the United States. The program had been suspended on February 22 during a partial government shutdown, with personnel reassigned to assist with general passenger processing.
“We are working hard to alleviate the disruptions to travelers,” the department said.
Global Entry is administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and is used by millions of travelers each year to reduce wait times at ports of entry. During the shutdown, some airports reported longer processing lines for international arrivals, and officials noted that staffing challenges affected certain airport operations.
Members of Congress, including Mark Warner, and travel industry groups had raised concerns about the disruption while broader negotiations over funding for the department continued.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For DHS, TSA, and CBP officials as they manage travel security and border operations without funding.
- For legislators as they consider the appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security and its many agencies.
- For airport staff, security personnel, and travelers during the operational strain.
Sources: Reuters, US News, MSN
