Update: Global Entry, TSA PreCheck website now accepts New Yorkers
Update: the enrollment website is once again accepting applications for New Yorkers
New Yorkers, rejoice: Your Global Entry privileges are back. And you can once again apply for membership.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Thursday that the agency would allow New York state residents to resume enrollment in Trusted Traveler programs including Global Entry, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST and TSA PreCheck. All of these memberships allow verified travelers to pass through expedited security screenings at U.S. borders.
As of July 26, you visit the Global Entry enrollment website and apply as a New Yorker. TPG staffers confirmed that the applications are once again processing.
DHS suspended New York's Trusted Traveler program eligibility back in February in response to a state law that provides driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants. The federal agency objected to a "sanctuary" clause in the law that shields license records, including home address and contact information, from immigration authorities, who rely on the data for deportations and other actions. In turn, the state of New York threatened to file a lawsuit challenging the agency's decision.
When New York's ban went into effect in February, the DHS acting secretary stated that the reason for terminating New York's access to Trusted Traveler programs was because the sealed records prevented the federal government from conducting adequate background checks on program applicants. The agency reversed its decision after New York leaders allowed Trusted Traveler programs to access driver's license records for the purpose of screening applicants.
"I am glad that this issue has finally been resolved for all New Yorkers," New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in response to the DHS announcement.
Unfortunately, the good news doesn't mean you can run out and renew your membership right this minute. Though you can submit an application, you won't be able to get an in-person interview just yet. This past week, DHS separately announced that all Trusted Traveler enrollment centers would remain closed until Sept. 8, citing continued COVID-19 concerns.
Additional reporting by Zach Griff