Global Entry Restarts After Shutdown

0:00On March 11th, the Department of Homeland Security restarted the Global Entry Program on Wednesday, more than two weeks after pausing it during the partial government shutdown. This trusted traveler service lets pre-approved, low-risk people skip long lines at U.S. entry points using special kiosks for a fee. Earlier this month, officials announced on February 22nd that the program would stay closed until the shutdown ended. They shifted customs and border protection staff from those kiosks to handle the regular flow of arriving passengers. The shutdown kicked off on February 14th when Democrats and the White House couldn't agree on funding for Homeland Security. At the heart of the stalemate, where Democratic pushes for changes to immigration enforcement tie to President Trump's deportation plans. Travelers face longer waits without the expedited lanes, spotlighting vulnerabilities and airport operations during budget fights. Now with the restart, things should speed up and major ports of entry. Discussions are picking up again on fixes like letting more airports handle security screening under TSA supervision to avoid future disruptions.