Global Entry, the biometric vetting program for US citizens and permanent residents, reopened early Wednesday. The program, which operates under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), was suspended on Feb. 22 as a result of lapsed DHS funding because of the partial government shutdown. TSA PreCheck, another security program, was also shut down for a few hours on Feb. 22, but then reinstated.

Geoff Freeman, CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said, “Over the last two weeks, the travel industry has been clear about the role programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck play in both security and efficiency.”  He continued, “Through outreach to members of Congress and administration officials, collaboration across the travel sector and strong public engagement, we highlighted a simple reality: Trusted Traveler Programs enhance security while keeping travel moving.”

TSA agents are not getting paid during the shutdown, which has led to long security lines at some US airports. 

Freeman called on Congress to pass a measure to pay TSA officers during the shutdown. “They deserve to be compensated without delay,” he said. 

The Keep America Flying Act, which has been introduced in Congress, would ensure TSA screening agents are paid regardless of the government’s funding status.