I’ll be curious to see how this plays out…
In this post:
Trusted Traveler Programs suspended in New York state
Residents of the state of New York can no longer register for Trusted Traveler Programs, including Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI. Those who already have a membership can continue to use it, while new sign-ups and renewals are no longer possible. As of now, TSA PreCheck enrollment and renewals aren’t impacted by this change.
This was revealed last night by the acting secretary of Homeland Security, Chad Wolf, on Tucker Carlson’s Fox News program. As of the time of the announcement, Customs and Border Protection agents in New York hadn’t yet been informed of this policy change.
New York governor Andrew Cuomo has already said that they are reviewing legal options for getting this overturned.
Why has enrollment been suspended?
The reason this is happening is because of the new “Green Light Laws” in New York, which went into effect in December 2019. This allows undocumented immigrants to apply for New York driver’s license while protecting their information from enforcement agencies.
As Wolf explained, New York state residents are no longer able to enroll or re-enroll “because we no longer have access to make sure that they meet those program requirements, so we need to do our job.”
That’s because this new law prevents the DHS from accessing New York DMV records, in order to determine if an applicant meets program eligibility requirements. It’s worth noting that the licenses issued under these “Green Light Laws” are explicitly not for federal purposes.
This decision comes after President Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday, where he criticized these kinds of laws:
“Tragically, there are many cities in America where radical politicians have chosen to provide sanctuary for these criminal, illegal aliens. In sanctuary cities local officials order police to release dangerous criminal aliens to prey upon the public, instead of handing them over to ICE to be safely removed.”
Do these sanctuary policies actually impact how the DHS vets people for Trusted Traveler Programs? According to former ICE Director, John Sandweg, this should have no impact:
“This is just irrational in the sense that sanctuary policies in no way shape or form affect DHS’ ability to vet people for global entry and other trusted traveler programs. It’s ridiculous, and it’s politicizing a program that’s not about politics. It’s trying to match two totally unrelated things. It’s just ridiculous. It’s the kind of thing that’s going to, frankly, politicize the department in a way that’s going to undermine its mission moving forward.”
What are the ID requirements of Global Entry?
In order to sign up for Global Entry you need to bring a valid passport and one other form of identification, such as a driver’s license or ID card to the interview.
It’s one thing if the federal government wants to claim that a New York state driver’s license is no longer an acceptable form of ID, but there are also non-driver ID cards, which best I can tell, are only open to people with lawful status in the US.
It seems like it could be easy enough for people to provide two forms of ID that are recognized by the federal government.
But there’s one area where they technically have a point. For example, if you’ve had a DUI you’re unlikely to get approved for Global Entry. With New York state preventing federal agencies from accessing DMV records, the relevant authorities have no way of verifying whether someone is being truthful when they state they haven’t had a DUI.
Bottom line
For the time being, New York state residents can’t enroll in or renew their Global Entry or other Trusted Traveler Program memberships. The logic is that New York state is issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants and is preventing federal agencies from accessing DMV records.
It seems like people should still be able to produce identification that the federal government finds accessible, though the blocking of DMV records does perhaps prevent them from accessing some details they often check when approving people for Trusted Traveler Programs.
I’m curious to see how long this lasts.
I am a NY resident with a GOES card that expired in January 2020. Do I still have a one-year grace period in which my card will be honored?
I have a second home in another state. Can I for a new GOES card using the address of my second home?
As a NY resident, am I eligible to apply for TSA Pre?
So, I applied before the December date, and just got a email now (February) saying my application has been canceled. I already have TSA Pre-check, and Clear. Since I’ve already been verified and approved for those programs I wonder why they couldn't just use that documentation. I’m fine with their thought process on this, and it does make complete sense. But I’m curious if I’ll get my money back since it wasn’t denied just canceled....
So, I applied before the December date, and just got a email now (February) saying my application has been canceled. I already have TSA Pre-check, and Clear. Since I’ve already been verified and approved for those programs I wonder why they couldn't just use that documentation. I’m fine with their thought process on this, and it does make complete sense. But I’m curious if I’ll get my money back since it wasn’t denied just canceled. This is what I get for not fleeing NY like many are.
What doesn't make sense to me is why the DMV the only outlet to assure safety? Yes, the green light law gives driver licenses to immigrants, but shouldn't the program validate you beyond the DMV? Passport, police records and such? Trump hates the democrats and they hate him, but he still represents the whole and NY is part of that, not fair on the individual, whatever his opinion may be.
I totally agree with you . I am a flight attendant and I use it several times a month . It is a big blow . I do not drive so I don’t have a driver’s license . DMV does not concern me and I am penalized.
This is 100% political and they now owe plenty of people their registration fees.
If we are not allowed to particpate in a program whihc asks you to supply a US passport as part of your ID then this has to be political. If the US government does not accept NY residents as eligible for a national program it should not recvieve NY resident taxes for its national debt.
I applied for Global Entry on July 14, 2019.
I paid the $100 fee and not a word from them!!!
The status of my application was always "pending"
My application was never considered by the Homeland Security.
My friend and I applied around the same time.. my friend was approved and allowed to scheduled an interviewed.
I have a Latino name and last name my friend holds an anglo name...
I applied for Global Entry on July 14, 2019.
I paid the $100 fee and not a word from them!!!
The status of my application was always "pending"
My application was never considered by the Homeland Security.
My friend and I applied around the same time.. my friend was approved and allowed to scheduled an interviewed.
I have a Latino name and last name my friend holds an anglo name and last name..
So... What do you think happens here?
I applied more than 6 moths ago, a moth after, the Green Light law was enacted.
In the end, they took my money.. my application was not considered maybe because of my latino name and of course no interview and my application is gone from the website..
Can someone have any idea how I can get help? because there is no way to reach anyone on their website..
I want my money back!!!!!
Let me solve this for NY, add amendment to current law allowing DHS to obtain DMV records of applicants of Global Entry.
Does anyone use critical thinking skills anymore.
People who dont have DLs apply for global entry all the time. Not everyone drives. You dont have to look in dmv database to see if people have criminal infractions related to driving . That's what NCIS background checks are for.
DHS is insisting they need access to a database they dont actuallu need access to to process global entry cards. They are doing this to...
Does anyone use critical thinking skills anymore.
People who dont have DLs apply for global entry all the time. Not everyone drives. You dont have to look in dmv database to see if people have criminal infractions related to driving . That's what NCIS background checks are for.
DHS is insisting they need access to a database they dont actuallu need access to to process global entry cards. They are doing this to be political becusee trump pissed by attorney general is out for his head.
That is all grown asss men pissing contest.
I attempted to renew Global Entry for myself and my family today. Our current Global Entry expires later this year. We formerly lived in New York but moved to another state two years ago. The renewal site for Global Entry will not let me proceed with a renewal because I lived in New York at one time. Even though I've updated my current address and input my driver's license information for the state I currently...
I attempted to renew Global Entry for myself and my family today. Our current Global Entry expires later this year. We formerly lived in New York but moved to another state two years ago. The renewal site for Global Entry will not let me proceed with a renewal because I lived in New York at one time. Even though I've updated my current address and input my driver's license information for the state I currently live in, it return with an error stating that I'm not eligible to apply because my "current" state is NY. Hopefully a programming error - but what a total cluster.
Or they could just eliminate GE program altogether. I've applied, been accepted but can't get an interview until August and I have to fly to Denver to do it. Had I known that, I would have skipped doing it but they have my money now. Remember GE is for our protection and not another repeat of 9-11.
Ben, thank you for not making this political, though many of the comments are political, some for some against. Another Points Guy website article makes political statements in their article about this, has some facutally incorrect things in the article, then refuses to post what they deem to be political comments.
I submitted one comment with zero political statement, but noted that they 1) had a political comment about Trump in the article; 2) had...
Ben, thank you for not making this political, though many of the comments are political, some for some against. Another Points Guy website article makes political statements in their article about this, has some facutally incorrect things in the article, then refuses to post what they deem to be political comments.
I submitted one comment with zero political statement, but noted that they 1) had a political comment about Trump in the article; 2) had two things factually incorrect about GE background checks; and 3) suggested that they should correct those things.
Zero comments for or against the decision. And the moderator killed the post rather than post it. Done with that site.
Good. the US should stop issuing ANY docs for illegal aliens. What kind of free for all madhouse has this become......
I love comments like this:
"NY and California refuse to comply with Federal laws regarding immigration. They have two choices: 1. Work to change the Federal Law or 2) Comply"
There is no federal law against sanctuary laws by cities and states.
And if there were, there is a huge question as to whether it would be constitutional.
So there is a third option: 3) Work to remove that petulant little child from the White...
I love comments like this:
"NY and California refuse to comply with Federal laws regarding immigration. They have two choices: 1. Work to change the Federal Law or 2) Comply"
There is no federal law against sanctuary laws by cities and states.
And if there were, there is a huge question as to whether it would be constitutional.
So there is a third option: 3) Work to remove that petulant little child from the White house. (With apologies to all the actual petulant little children I know, none of whom I intend to insult with this metaphor.)
I have to comment here because some information you provided is incorrect. You do not need DMV records to tell if someone got a DUI. When you are arrested for or convicted for any criminal offense it is required that you be placed in the National Criminal Information Center database (NCIC). It has nothing to do with the Green Light Laws in New York. Blocking DMV access really only prevents the federal government agencies from...
I have to comment here because some information you provided is incorrect. You do not need DMV records to tell if someone got a DUI. When you are arrested for or convicted for any criminal offense it is required that you be placed in the National Criminal Information Center database (NCIC). It has nothing to do with the Green Light Laws in New York. Blocking DMV access really only prevents the federal government agencies from checking whether you have any moving violations which, as far as I know, doesn't prevent you from getting into the trusted traveler programs. This whole stunt is very political and exactly the kind of thing Trump would do to stick it to Cuomo.
They played with the wrong city. NYC has more attorneys and large law firms who are going to figure out how to sue someone to stop this nonsense.
What are the various credit card programs going to offer NYers who are paying for this service as part of their card payment and cannot access it? This is why benefits tied to to specific programs or companies are not a great idea.
Saying that they don't the DMV information is a ridiculous statement. Nobody really knows how the background checks work and what exactly they are looking for, otherwise people would be able to fool it and GE would no longer have a purpose. It's not a mandatory program either but a privilege, so comply with the rules that are the same to everyone or not have it.
I do not have a driver’s license and I live in nyc . I currently use Global Entry three to four times a month . I am penalized and I do not drive . It is unfair . I have had Global Entry for several years . I am furious.
OMG!!!!!!!!!!
This topic blew up quite big.
Fun fact.
MANY READERS HERE ARE GENIUSES.
Last year, you were smarter than NTSB and Boeing for analyzing 737 crashes.
Last few months, you were experts determining software and engineering flaws of the MAX.
Last few weeks, you were smarter than virologist and knew everything about the Wuhan virus.
Now not only you know how DHS and ICE works, you are also experts on conducting background checks.
WHAT...
OMG!!!!!!!!!!
This topic blew up quite big.
Fun fact.
MANY READERS HERE ARE GENIUSES.
Last year, you were smarter than NTSB and Boeing for analyzing 737 crashes.
Last few months, you were experts determining software and engineering flaws of the MAX.
Last few weeks, you were smarter than virologist and knew everything about the Wuhan virus.
Now not only you know how DHS and ICE works, you are also experts on conducting background checks.
WHAT A GROUP OF GENIUS READERS.
As A NY resident whose Global Entry is up in a year, it’s frustrating. But it’s a very necessary move by DHS. Illegal immigrants are NOT above the law! They should be subject to the same set of laws as permanent residents and citizens are. If NYS isn’t allowing DHS access to illegal immigrants’ records, shame on them. This is on the State of NY
Wouldn't a DUI be recorded as a crime; therefore, it's in a person's criminal record? In other words, the Federal government wouldn't need DMV records. They just need to look in their own database. This whole affair is purely political.
Without reading what I'm sure is a dumpster fire of a comment section.
I have a DUI. I applied for GE and was asked to provide court records. Once I did that fine and dandy. They didn't need my driving record.
I guess the bigger picture is that Global Entry has always been a political cudgel to appease people you don't want as enemies.
When folks started screaming about long immigration lines and the inanity of shoe removal and laptop debagging and naked scanners, federal administrators could either (a) stand their ground and keep angering folks who have enough gumption to call their House rep or (b) bribe those people, giving anyone willing to do...
I guess the bigger picture is that Global Entry has always been a political cudgel to appease people you don't want as enemies.
When folks started screaming about long immigration lines and the inanity of shoe removal and laptop debagging and naked scanners, federal administrators could either (a) stand their ground and keep angering folks who have enough gumption to call their House rep or (b) bribe those people, giving anyone willing to do a trivial amount of administrative work a better travel experience.
Exactly the people who could effect change now get a great deal and the people who don't have their stuff together, yes, aren't treated too well, but also demonstrably aren't gonna do anything about it.
Excluding every NY resident makes sense if you're comfortable ignoring all their votes and their legislators, which ... makes a lot of sense? This is nothing compared to the SALT caps.
Trump—“are you on my team”
Human—“I’m not sure sir”
Trump “bye-bye I hope you rot in hell”
So predictable
“Red Meat” for the Base—yum yum. Move on—nothing to see in “Trumps vision of America”. Predictable—actually.
@Vickie. I wish I knew the same info. I applied in OCTOBER and have heard nothing. Makes me wonder why we have to pay $100 upfront and if we’ll ever get it back if they never get around to letting us schedule an appointment, which is also supposed to be difficult.
I’ve flown internationally on 11 flights since then and would have appreciated the benefit of GE.
Surely, without a US passport, the application would fall at the first hurdle.
Secondly, why does a DUI record matter, unless the applicant is flight crew ?(unlikely).
Lastly, wouldn't a DUI conviction disqualify a hefty slice of politicians? Haven't seen any of them lining up with the great unwashed at any entry points!
I guess that's what happens when NY prioritizes illegal aliens over Americans.
@ James S
How very clever to include a tidbit about CA issuing licenses to illegals and seeing a drop in hit-and-runs.
However, the data doesn't support a drop in hits...Common sense says that if you add more drivers (i.e. illegals) to CA's finite roads, then there are bound to be more accidents.
The fact that they're not running away is because CA won't cooperate with ICE anymore.
Fewer hit-and-runs isn't a safety improvement until...
@ James S
How very clever to include a tidbit about CA issuing licenses to illegals and seeing a drop in hit-and-runs.
However, the data doesn't support a drop in hits...Common sense says that if you add more drivers (i.e. illegals) to CA's finite roads, then there are bound to be more accidents.
The fact that they're not running away is because CA won't cooperate with ICE anymore.
Fewer hit-and-runs isn't a safety improvement until you tell me there are fewer hits. Spoiler alert: it's not safer.
I support this move 110%. It’s about time NY CA and a few other states realize they are part of the US not independent sovereign nations.
@Alpha - having access to the DMV database and finding that someone is *not* in it (i.e. no license) is not the same as not being able to access the DMV database at all.
Such a lovely co- incidence as Trump has been run out of town with everyone hating him in NY - laughable - just payback - pathetic
NY and California refuse to comply with Federal laws regarding immigration. They have two choices: 1. Work to change the Federal Law or 2) Comply
I am 100% supportive of efforts to deny any Federal benefit to any state that ignores US Immigration law. (or any other Federal law)
Love watching the people with TDS claim that just handing GE to anyone is GOOD policy!
@lucky - I am curious if the people who recently applied and paid the $100 GE fee will get their money back if they aren't allowed to finish the process?
This is ridiculous political retaliation and nothing more, just like the tax changed in 2018 that were targeted to hurt blue states. What a petulant baby.
Re: entering Canada with a DUI:
You know the letter of the law but not the practical reality. I crossed the Canadian border at least 9 times with a DUI under my belt (via plane, train and automobile). A few of those times I was directly questioned about my poor choice to drive while intoxicated, so I can't pretend like they didn't know.
The main issue at play is slightly different legal systems....
Re: entering Canada with a DUI:
You know the letter of the law but not the practical reality. I crossed the Canadian border at least 9 times with a DUI under my belt (via plane, train and automobile). A few of those times I was directly questioned about my poor choice to drive while intoxicated, so I can't pretend like they didn't know.
The main issue at play is slightly different legal systems. The main issue is that a DUI is considered a Crown Offence in Canada, which is roughly equivalent to a felony in the US. The problem is DUI isn't often considered a felony in the US. Further, different states categorize DUI convictions differently. I was arrested on suspicion of DUI but ultimately convicted of alcohol related negligent driving. Because every state has different terminology and ways of handling DUIs, they ultimately rely on the border guard to assess the person's true threat to safety and security. So if you are asked, be honest, direct and ideally have all the related documentation to support your entry into Canada (ie, case was closed and you served all relevant sentences/fines). If you have this, you will be admitted 75-90% of the time.
Further, if the offense is more than 10 years old (as in my case), you are by default considered 'rehabilitated'. This means they are technically supposed to let you in w/o hindrance. There are, however, a few isolated examples of this not being the case. Generally when the person seeking admission is being a prick, however.
Point being - people are acting like there are hard and fast rules here. There aren't. Even with laws we must exercise common sense and judgment, something our current administration seems to struggle with.
“This isn’t political.”
Thanks for the laughs.
It's honestly exhausting how political the comments in the blog posts have become lately.
@snic
I am not defending Trump but do think the CBP has a valid claim in suspending NY State TTP enrollments. In my response, I just seek to address what I think are flaws in your position.
" what prevented the administration from simply asking New York to make the specific information it needs available?"
The local governments cannot provide such data.
From the TIMES TELEGRAM
"President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice...
@snic
I am not defending Trump but do think the CBP has a valid claim in suspending NY State TTP enrollments. In my response, I just seek to address what I think are flaws in your position.
" what prevented the administration from simply asking New York to make the specific information it needs available?"
The local governments cannot provide such data.
From the TIMES TELEGRAM
"President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice also intervened in the case, questioning the legality of a portion of the Green Light Law that prevents local governments from sharing driver’s license information with ICE without a judicial warrant or court order."
"And consider that certain foreigners are allowed to obtain GE (e.g., citizens of Argentina, India and 9 other nations,"
Perhaps those countries allow CBP access to databases when ones address, physical attributes, and other factors could be corroborated against what is submitted.
"Pretty much every other record (address, etc) is also available elsewhere – including the address you list when you apply for a passport."
I am sure the government can find it elsewhere, however they do not have too. This is a voluntary program that is a privilege. Therefore, it enjoys significantly less protections that a law barring entry into the country for citizens.
@ Ray - isn't using a small subset of comments on a travel blog as anecdotal evidence that all Trump supports are ignorant in itself an ignorant statement?
Of course any action taken by a governmental agency could be political. All of these decisions are made my politicians or are directed to be made by politicians, or are made by people appointed by politicians or serve at the pleasure of politicians. If they are making...
@ Ray - isn't using a small subset of comments on a travel blog as anecdotal evidence that all Trump supports are ignorant in itself an ignorant statement?
Of course any action taken by a governmental agency could be political. All of these decisions are made my politicians or are directed to be made by politicians, or are made by people appointed by politicians or serve at the pleasure of politicians. If they are making decisions in their professional role, then decisions will of course be shaped by their political leanings. Are you saying the Cuomo administration wasn't acting politically and in defiance of the Trump administration when they passed the Green Light law? Of course it was political. But you could argue there was a legitimate reason to pass it, and others would disagree. The federal response? Of course it was a political determination not to proceed with accepting TT's when there exists an information void in their background checks. But you could argue there is a legitimate reason to take this stance, and others (apparently including you) would disagree. So are you saying all political determinations are wrong? Or only the ones you disagree with? Say you disagree with the policy and provide your supporting arguments for why. But unless you can prove that there is absolutely no correlation to security and that the ONLY thing this accomplishes is giving a big finger to Cuomo, then simply saying this is political is hardly an argument for why it is not necessary.
Also ignorant? Believing blue states are the only places for educated people to live. You mean to tell me there is no reasonable explanation for an educated person to live in PA, OH, MI, GA or FL (all of which Trump won, and are at best "purple" states)? Would love to hear your explanation for that. Education knows no party line, nor geographic residence, so to make such sweeping generalizations based solely on your hatred for the current administration, is by definition, ignorant.
What Anthony wrote way up there bears repeating, so I'll repeat it:
"Politics – pure and simple. The administration seeking a way to irritate states and citizens that oppose his policies. A more neutral administration would have alerted New York to whatever legitimate issues arose from their new law and would have found a way to work with them to specifically screen TTP applicants."
For all those defending the administration because it has to conduct...
What Anthony wrote way up there bears repeating, so I'll repeat it:
"Politics – pure and simple. The administration seeking a way to irritate states and citizens that oppose his policies. A more neutral administration would have alerted New York to whatever legitimate issues arose from their new law and would have found a way to work with them to specifically screen TTP applicants."
For all those defending the administration because it has to conduct "background checks" that supposedly absolutely depend on access to DMV records: what prevented the administration from simply asking New York to make the specific information it needs available? And consider that certain foreigners are allowed to obtain GE (e.g., citizens of Argentina, India and 9 other nations, see https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/eligibility). If DMV data is not required for Colombians, Panamanians, Mexicans, Indians, etc, why is it required for New Yorkers?
And if DMV data is sooooo essential for these background checks, please describe what exactly is in it that CBP must have and can get from no other source. As others have already repeatedly said, criminal records are available elsewhere. Pretty much every other record (address, etc) is also available elsewhere - including the address you list when you apply for a passport.
Finally, as if all this weren't enough, you can tell this was a political move because it was announced on Tucker Carlson's show.
Any of you that say this isn't political on the part of this administration, just proves my theory that all trump supporters are either ignorant or dishonest.
I'm assuming the punitive state and local limitation on tax deductions was also not political. Interestingly, since blue states are the only reasonable places to live for educated people, it primarily only affected those states.
You have a 5 year old in the WH. Everything is political and...
Any of you that say this isn't political on the part of this administration, just proves my theory that all trump supporters are either ignorant or dishonest.
I'm assuming the punitive state and local limitation on tax deductions was also not political. Interestingly, since blue states are the only reasonable places to live for educated people, it primarily only affected those states.
You have a 5 year old in the WH. Everything is political and everything is vindictive.
@Dan
"A DUI record will, quite obviously, be in a criminal record database that is independent of DMV records."
From the CBP website:
You may not be eligible for participation in the NEXUS program if you:
" Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges or outstanding warrants (to include driving under the influence);
A DWI may appear on your driving record even if it does not appear on...
@Dan
"A DUI record will, quite obviously, be in a criminal record database that is independent of DMV records."
From the CBP website:
You may not be eligible for participation in the NEXUS program if you:
" Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges or outstanding warrants (to include driving under the influence);
A DWI may appear on your driving record even if it does not appear on your criminal record. That is why Nexus, specifically for Canada, needs access to the DMV records.
@Dan, I agree with your points except 1. If a non-Canadian has a DUI they are technically not eligible to enter Canada. Specifically, Canada bars entry to anyone with a criminal record unless they acquire a consular waiver. The US is actually more lenient in this regard as they only bar someone if their criminal record involves, 'moral turpitude'.
Let's all pretend that Sanctuary States/Cities AREN'T political, then call the Administration fascists like the rest of the virtue signalling parrots.
Why is this an all or nothing kind of thing? I can see why NY State wouldn't want to allow wholesale access by the federal government into a State Database, but why can't it be done on an individual basis?
If I apply for a Trusted Traveler program, that is my consent to have the agency (in this case, the Federal Govt) to check into my state's databases necessary to ensure I comply with...
Why is this an all or nothing kind of thing? I can see why NY State wouldn't want to allow wholesale access by the federal government into a State Database, but why can't it be done on an individual basis?
If I apply for a Trusted Traveler program, that is my consent to have the agency (in this case, the Federal Govt) to check into my state's databases necessary to ensure I comply with the requirements of their program. This should be the solution and would be in a rational time.
This seems like a very public way to pick a fight with NY and other states who have sanctuary laws by putting people in the middle of politics.
If they really need DMV records, why not require the applicant to provide it? The applicant go to to the DMV office and get a certified printout of their record.
I know this, because I got caught for speeding in VA, and I lived in DC at the time. The judge in VA does not have access to DC DMV records, so I got it from the DC DMV and submitted it to the court.
I dont like the greenlight law, however, the Feds can get the information they need from sources other than the DMV. Like insurance records. Remember there are no records DHS cant access except maybe your smartphone.
@Lucky "But there’s one area where they technically have a point." - Please see the comments above that show this logic is wrong and correct it in your article. Otherwise readers will be mislead and believe that this move by the administration could somehow be justified based on the particular point you laid out, which it clearly is not in reality. I know it was inadvertent on your part, but it is very important that...
@Lucky "But there’s one area where they technically have a point." - Please see the comments above that show this logic is wrong and correct it in your article. Otherwise readers will be mislead and believe that this move by the administration could somehow be justified based on the particular point you laid out, which it clearly is not in reality. I know it was inadvertent on your part, but it is very important that you correct inaccurate information so people are not misled about what is happening here. Thanks.
Love all the newly minted internet attorneys on this thread.
You can enter Canada with a DUI. This decision is left to the official processing your border crossing.
A DUI record will, quite obviously, be in a criminal record database that is independent of DMV records. To think blocking access to DMV records somehow blocks DUI records is just idiotic. Further, having a DUI no longer automatically precludes Global Entry or Trusted Traveler....
Love all the newly minted internet attorneys on this thread.
You can enter Canada with a DUI. This decision is left to the official processing your border crossing.
A DUI record will, quite obviously, be in a criminal record database that is independent of DMV records. To think blocking access to DMV records somehow blocks DUI records is just idiotic. Further, having a DUI no longer automatically precludes Global Entry or Trusted Traveler. I have a DUI (which was disclosed) and I've been approved for both.
As others have noted, there are many ways to prove residency that don't involve a drivers license.
This is a blatantly political move that has nothing to do with safety.
@James
Could the documents provided (utility bills, etc.) be used as a basic document for merely a placeholder while the verification of residency uses DMV records.
James S says:
TBH is wrong.
TBH says: Not entirely sure how I'll recover from this, but I'll try. Unless you work for DHS and know exactly what the department reviews during their evaluation of whether to grant an applicant TT status or not, everyone here is simply providing their opinion on a matter that has political undertones with very little factual support beyond assumptions and basic published application guidelines, which you so aptly copy/pasted...
James S says:
TBH is wrong.
TBH says: Not entirely sure how I'll recover from this, but I'll try. Unless you work for DHS and know exactly what the department reviews during their evaluation of whether to grant an applicant TT status or not, everyone here is simply providing their opinion on a matter that has political undertones with very little factual support beyond assumptions and basic published application guidelines, which you so aptly copy/pasted for us.
If you really feel the need to be "right" about this, go right ahead. But all you listed was the required documentation for approval into the TT program. Another requirement for approval? Passing a background check. What you said speaks of nothing to do with the extent to which the department will conduct its background checks into applicants and whether there are any elements, and what those elements are, that would be qualifying or disqualifying to an applicant. Like I said, if there is a record out there and the department cannot access it to complete its background check, then there is a gap in the diligence, or as @KK said above, an information void.
No individual has a right to the TT program but I would imagine most people with it are glad it exists. We all submitted to the background check without a full understanding of everything they may look into. If I am wrong for wanting to know that the department has done a thorough review of everyone else re-entering this country through the GE line as they did of me, then fine - TBH is wrong.
I’m a New Yorker and while I’m good for 2 years my family is affected as they were going to apply this year. Still I am filled with joy as addressing state governments which aid and abet illegal aliens is more important than my convenience. I blame the Cuomo Administration and his party controlled legislature that allowed this license to illegals policy to go through and the restriction of access to the data by the...
I’m a New Yorker and while I’m good for 2 years my family is affected as they were going to apply this year. Still I am filled with joy as addressing state governments which aid and abet illegal aliens is more important than my convenience. I blame the Cuomo Administration and his party controlled legislature that allowed this license to illegals policy to go through and the restriction of access to the data by the feds. It is unfortunate my family has to pay a price because of the New York government’s illegal conduct.
I am a US citizen and NY resident. I vote, pay my taxes and show up for jury duty. My father fought in WWII for this country and had the scars to prove it. That I am now denied renewal of Global Entry is disgusting.
Citizens of multiple other countries are also eligible for Global Entry (as of right now....). They include Mexico, the UK, Singapore, Germany, India, Colombia, Argentina and Panama, amongst others. There is no way that DHS has access to their driving records - just the criminal records. This is purely a political retaliation.
@James S
Yes, but doesn’t the Mexican government undertake these checks on behalf of DHS?
I’m a UK citizen and had to go through a British government approval process before applying for global entry.
Those "snowflake" states have been subsidizing the welfare queen red states forever. This country would go broke in a hurry without them. But I don't expect Trump supporters to grasp that concept.
TBH says:
"For all those claiming access to DMV records is not required because many NY residents (presumably mostly NYC residents) don’t have drivers licenses, you are missing the point."
TBH is wrong.
Here is what you need:
"A valid passport or permanent resident card. If you travel using more than one passport, please bring them to the interview so that the information can be added to your file. This provides you with the...
TBH says:
"For all those claiming access to DMV records is not required because many NY residents (presumably mostly NYC residents) don’t have drivers licenses, you are missing the point."
TBH is wrong.
Here is what you need:
"A valid passport or permanent resident card. If you travel using more than one passport, please bring them to the interview so that the information can be added to your file. This provides you with the ability to use either passport at the Global Entry kiosk;
Documents providing evidence of residency. Examples are a drivers license (if the address is current), mortgage statement, rental payment statement, utility bill, etc."
A drivers license is only used to prove residency. It is not needed because you can use a utility bill.
Fun fact: Mexican citizens living in Mexico can join global entry. Do you think DHS has access to the driving records of people in Tuxtla? Of course. not.
Grudgingly I think this makes sense. I just moved to NYC and went to the DMV on Monday to get my NY license.
Despite scraping together the multiple proofs of address the website said I needed to bring, the dmv clerk told me to simply fill out a self-declaration to “prove” my address.
You literally need a passport to get GE. Any criminal record is on a national FBI database when you submit your fingerprints. The fingerprint division is in my hometown. Any background check, any criminal check, literally anything having to do with checks in this entire country is run through that division (and it's not in a liberal state). This is purely political and putting the economic powerhouse in a terrible bind. People poo poo NY...
You literally need a passport to get GE. Any criminal record is on a national FBI database when you submit your fingerprints. The fingerprint division is in my hometown. Any background check, any criminal check, literally anything having to do with checks in this entire country is run through that division (and it's not in a liberal state). This is purely political and putting the economic powerhouse in a terrible bind. People poo poo NY and California all they want but without these two states, America wouldn't even be in the top 10 wealthiest countries. New York State is going after Trump's taxes and he is fighting back by hurting every day people.
Kinda related: I applied for global entry in AUGUST and I’m still pending. Can’t even schedule my interview. Has anyone else has it take this long???
This abrupt move is 100% politically motivated. Normal (sane) people would give advance notice of potential problems, warnings of non-compliance and a timetable to work around the information void (applicant’s opt-in for disclosures, printed DMV records to submit, etc).
@Lucky
DUI is a criminal offense in 49 out of 50 states and will get one arrested and fingerprinted in 50 out of 50 states. DUI arrests (fingerprinting) generate criminal records in NCIC (the national FBI criminal database) and DUI charges generate court records. CBP checks for those records when doing background checks for TTPs. Accordingly, DMV access is in no way necessary to check someone's history of DUI's but would just be redundant ....
@Lucky
DUI is a criminal offense in 49 out of 50 states and will get one arrested and fingerprinted in 50 out of 50 states. DUI arrests (fingerprinting) generate criminal records in NCIC (the national FBI criminal database) and DUI charges generate court records. CBP checks for those records when doing background checks for TTPs. Accordingly, DMV access is in no way necessary to check someone's history of DUI's but would just be redundant .
Respectfully, "they" do not "technically have a point," and you should know better than that.
Hoping that California is next and that they take TSA Pre as well. Enough of snowflake states that want to have their own laws that go against the US laws. As for the residents that will be affected by this just vote correctly next time.
For all those claiming access to DMV records is not required because many NY residents (presumably mostly NYC residents) don't have drivers licenses, you are missing the point. If you are going to vet someone for a "trusted" program, there is a big difference in not having a record to even review and having a record to which the program has no access. No one is claiming you need a license and DMV record to...
For all those claiming access to DMV records is not required because many NY residents (presumably mostly NYC residents) don't have drivers licenses, you are missing the point. If you are going to vet someone for a "trusted" program, there is a big difference in not having a record to even review and having a record to which the program has no access. No one is claiming you need a license and DMV record to be granted TT, but if you have a license and a record, you darn well should expect the program to want to see it. Not sure why this is so hard to understand or why anyone in the TT program would object to the program doing thorough background checks. If they just said, oh well, can't see these records, let's just trust they are good people, does not not diminish the integrity of the program and the reason for its existence?
Try looking at this without your political biases and analyze based on the practicality of the situation. Literally any action taken by the government is inherently political as the actions are taken or directed to be taken by...well politicians! Regardless of your feelings about the president, not every action taken is nefarious simply because you disagree with him politically, even if the actions happen to promote his particular policies. To me, there is a valid reason for this, but I also believe there could be potential work arounds as well. Until those are introduced, I say good move for the integrity of the program.
For those that state many New Yorkers do not have a Driver's License, may I ask who issues NYS identification cards?
If the DMV issues non- driver license ID cards than no access to such a database is grounds for denial.
@Michael E Holmes Your statement is false. They don't need DMV records for that information. Its readily available in a person's criminal record which is linked to their fingerprints which are taken as part of the process.
" The Mobile Passport line is usually emptier than the GE kiosks." - I can't think of a time I ever had to wait for a GE kiosk to become available. That must be an airport by airport thing, because I blow through border control using GE.
@Lucky "With New York state preventing federal agencies from accessing DMV records, the relevant authorities have no way of verifying whether someone is being truthful when they state they haven’t had a DUI." - This is absolutely wrong. They don't need DMV records for that. That information is contained in a person's rap sheets which is linked to their fingerprints. The administration is lying flat out and misleading people. What they want is for ICE...
@Lucky "With New York state preventing federal agencies from accessing DMV records, the relevant authorities have no way of verifying whether someone is being truthful when they state they haven’t had a DUI." - This is absolutely wrong. They don't need DMV records for that. That information is contained in a person's rap sheets which is linked to their fingerprints. The administration is lying flat out and misleading people. What they want is for ICE to have access to all the names and addresses of the undocumented people who signed up under the new law so that they can use that information to go out and round them up. That is what this is about. Nothing else. ICE doesn't even run global entry, CBP does. Yet you see ICE mentioned repeatedly in the administration's statement.
The free Mobile Passport app is the obvious workaround for this. The Mobile Passport line is usually emptier than the GE kiosks.
@Michael E Hommes-
You don’t need DMV information to look up a DUI- it is recorded in the state criminal database.
Also if DMV information is -not- required, because many New Yorkers don’t have a license.
@Hoth300 please update the rest of us on how it goes.
Well, Global Entry is a trusted program and they can't get the information from the DMV, its over! We can't have Global Entry in the wrong hands. This got nothing to do with Trump. Its the progressive in the State of New York that screwed this up.
So my Global Entry expires in May, but I re-enrolled a few weeks ago. My re-application is pending, and the TTP website says due to processing delays of renewals it will be good for an extra year. So I have time still. Curious to know, however, since I got my renewal in before the ban is there some hope it will still be processed? Or did the DHS just close the floodgates. I can't really...
So my Global Entry expires in May, but I re-enrolled a few weeks ago. My re-application is pending, and the TTP website says due to processing delays of renewals it will be good for an extra year. So I have time still. Curious to know, however, since I got my renewal in before the ban is there some hope it will still be processed? Or did the DHS just close the floodgates. I can't really ascertain if it's just people who haven't started to renew GE that are screwed, or it's all NY'ers even if they got their application in before last night? Assume the worst and I'm SOL but I'm sure a compromise will be reached...any thoughts?
Let's stop pretending this is anything other than petty, vindictive BS by the petulant child at 1600 Pennsylvania.
EC2 is correct, California has issued drivers licenses regardless of legal status for years. It has resulted in a decrease in hit and run collisions, as expected. Very successful policy.
Practical question - I am a NY resident and have been conditionally approved for my renewal. Interview is this Sunday. I'm guessing I will be denied? My membership expires in March. Will I still be allowed the one year grace period? This is going to be such a clusterf*ck...
Agree 100% with this move, if you can't verify that an applicant complies, then you can't prove eligibility for GE and so forth.
If other states can comply, so can NY, they ain't special.
Totally agree with this move! If any of you have a problem with it, take it up with your lawmakers who seem to like giving breaks to thugs and criminals while giving the finger to anything federal. These sorts of moves on the part of state authorities have consequences and would be forcefully crushed if they occurred in an actual socialist nation.
Great!!!!!
Blocking all rude New Yorkers is everyone’s wish!!!
@Alpha, your question #2 suggests you aren't aware that part of getting into the program is submitting to a background check. That check includes a review of your driving record. If, for example, someone has a DUI, in most instances they are rejected from the program. Due to actions by the state of NY, the program now doesn't have access to that information.
There are other states like NC and CA that issue licenses irrespective of residency status so NY doesn't have a leg to stand on as those states apparently comply.
Millions of people in nyc have never gotten a license because you don't need one to live in the city.
There are zero factual reasons to ban ny residents.
And as pointed up above, dui isn't just a driving ticket. It's a criminal offense that will show up in every record.
The federal government doesn't need to know how the state is issuing parking tickets, which is what the dmv has.
@aztec a DUI can be sealed/plead down as a criminal record but does stay on your driver's license. They are two different things.
You are correct GE and Nexus are different.
Nexus is done in direct cooperation with Canada and if you have a DUI you are not allowed to participate in the program which is why they need the DMV records.
Anybody who is saying this isn't political is being purposefully obtuse. There is no information about this change on the DHS twitter feed or website. It was only announced on that person's show. Absolutely ridiculous. And how do they explain that they don't need access to the database if you don't have a license to begin with?
You do NOT need access to DMV records to see if someone has a DUI; It is a criminal charge and can be accessed via state judicial records. So, this argument is not valid.
Also, Global Entry and Nexus are not the same thing.
For those that believe DMV records are necessary to vet Global Entry applicants, I applied for (and was approved for) Global Entry without a driver's license. Not uncommon in NYC.
Why do they need access to DMV records to see if the person got a DUI? DUI is a criminal charge. It will be in the person's criminal record which will go into NCIS (National Crime Information System).
Just like let's say I was walking down the street drunk and got a drunk in public charge. That goes on my criminal record, not DMV record.
There is such an easy remedy for this. Sign an affidavit allowing DHS to access your own DMV records. I’m mean, really...how many undocumented people are applying for GE anyway? Or have US passports? Or one of the other countries where people are allowed to have GE (UK comes to mind).
Sometimes we all just can’t think outside the box and immediately go to politics. All DHS had to say is that if you...
There is such an easy remedy for this. Sign an affidavit allowing DHS to access your own DMV records. I’m mean, really...how many undocumented people are applying for GE anyway? Or have US passports? Or one of the other countries where people are allowed to have GE (UK comes to mind).
Sometimes we all just can’t think outside the box and immediately go to politics. All DHS had to say is that if you want GE and are from NY, allow us access to your DMV records. Good grief.
"Undocumented immigrants" is (left, liberal) media-speak for "illegal".
Sad to see that bias here as well.
Of course it’s political - on both sides.
NY doesn’t like US immigration policy but can’t change it at the National level so attempts to take its ball and go home with its DMV records.
US says, well we will see about that and suspends trusted traveler because it uses DMV records.
Court battle ensues. US position likely prevails. If NY or the US cared about the poor overtaxed rich people of NY, they would both seek a compromise but it’s not in either one’s interest.
Most people I know in New York don’t have a drivers license but do
Have a passport. And they all got global entry. Hmmm
Bravo, Trump and his Administration!
@ Ben - you should have lived in my former country (Czechoslovakia) in the 60s to see what those "progressives" will do to you. But, alas, most revolutionaries are (were) elitist.
What if somebody from another state once had a DUI in NY? Would they find out about it? If they wouldn't, then shouldn't this disqualify anybody from any state?
I'd rather DHS sanction one state than allow that one state to ruin it for the whole country. The other 49 states are on notice.
Global Entry is a privilege, not a right. Much like a driver's license. I've read elsewhere that this policy violates this, that or the other amendment or clause of the Constitution which is crap. New York State can play by the DHS rules or have its citizens excluded from...
I'd rather DHS sanction one state than allow that one state to ruin it for the whole country. The other 49 states are on notice.
Global Entry is a privilege, not a right. Much like a driver's license. I've read elsewhere that this policy violates this, that or the other amendment or clause of the Constitution which is crap. New York State can play by the DHS rules or have its citizens excluded from this program. I refuse to believe they didn't see this coming. It will take exactly one person to slip through the cracks, do something really stupid and screw this program up for the rest of us.
Global Entry depends on the DHS having access to as much information about an applicant as they can to best determine risk. If an auto insurance company (also in the business of determining risk) were denied access to DMV records, I would fully expect it to deny an application right off the bat effectively preventing a person from legally driving their vehicle. Perhaps a system could be put in place whereby a trusted traveler program applicant could grant DHS access to their DMV records on a case-by-case basis. This seems unnecessarily complicated but could a viable workaround.
This is political retribution disguised as national security. Everything this administration does is political and using American citizens as pawns is a feature not a bug.
Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson are white nationalists
Is everyone aware that airline pilots who have a DUI conviction are not allowed entry into Canada?
It would make for NEXUS to be suspended because of this as the DMV records are required.
NY is currently experiencing the horrible failings of a new, no cash bail law that went into effect in January. Almost everyone is released right after arraignment irrespective of the severity of the crime.
Cuomo and the NYS Legislature are...
Is everyone aware that airline pilots who have a DUI conviction are not allowed entry into Canada?
It would make for NEXUS to be suspended because of this as the DMV records are required.
NY is currently experiencing the horrible failings of a new, no cash bail law that went into effect in January. Almost everyone is released right after arraignment irrespective of the severity of the crime.
Cuomo and the NYS Legislature are fools and people are currently voting with their feet and leaving NY State.
For those who still think it isn't politically motivated:
1. This is NY - this state has a high number of residents without licenses and instead have a state ID.
2. If their concern really was that they don't get access to records then why not just state a NY drivers license isn't valid?
3. Why did they announce it on Tucker Carlson?
This is just one of Stephen Miller's dumb policies...
For those who still think it isn't politically motivated:
1. This is NY - this state has a high number of residents without licenses and instead have a state ID.
2. If their concern really was that they don't get access to records then why not just state a NY drivers license isn't valid?
3. Why did they announce it on Tucker Carlson?
This is just one of Stephen Miller's dumb policies enacted while Trump snorted a rail of adderall for a quid pro quo. But truth of the matter is NYers already hate Trump and as much as I dislike Cuomo ain't nobody siding with 45 on this.
I am conditionally approved. I have my interview for renewal in a couple weeks. Curious if they will still let me interview.
I don’t like the current occupant of the White House, but if they can’t access DMV records then it makes perfect sense
Honestly, good points in the comments defending the governments position. The government needs those records for the applications and the state is not providing it. Things like this happen all the time. It’s like the drinking age is 21. But the federal government doesn’t set it the states do. But if a state lowered the drinking age to 18, the Federal government can cut their funding. Could politics be involved? (Of course it can in...
Honestly, good points in the comments defending the governments position. The government needs those records for the applications and the state is not providing it. Things like this happen all the time. It’s like the drinking age is 21. But the federal government doesn’t set it the states do. But if a state lowered the drinking age to 18, the Federal government can cut their funding. Could politics be involved? (Of course it can in these times. Is the government in their right to do this? (Yep) What happens now is that New York will find the most liberal judge to appeal to who will take their side. Then it will eventually make it to the Supreme Court who will rule on the side of the DHS (Although I suspect some of the liberal judges will side with DHS since the key issue here isn’t immigration rights)
A lot of people here are saying "Well it's nothing political" but hold on, lemme run this through my super advanced algorithm of "reading their official statement"
Calculating....
And yes it's 100% political and not at all in the interest of national security. My super advanced algorithm of "reading his dumb ass statement" came back 100% conclusive. These guys are D-students and they aren't even good at spinning the fact they want to compromise...
A lot of people here are saying "Well it's nothing political" but hold on, lemme run this through my super advanced algorithm of "reading their official statement"
Calculating....
And yes it's 100% political and not at all in the interest of national security. My super advanced algorithm of "reading his dumb ass statement" came back 100% conclusive. These guys are D-students and they aren't even good at spinning the fact they want to compromise national security to "own the libs."
Andrew Cuomo has definitely lost a few mph on his fastball. And don't get me started on his brother Fredo.
Seems reasonable. Yet again, NY putting criminals ahead of their own citizens.
Politics - pure and simple. The administration seeking a way to irritate states and citizens that oppose his policies. A more neutral administration would have alerted New York to whatever legitimate issues arose from their new law and would have found a way to work with them to specifically screen TTP applicants.
@Rob @TrvlGuru @Eskimo
Precisely!! This isn't a political stunt, it comes down to DHS access to NY DMV records. Sick & tired of everybody trying to make everything into some political play.
@TrvlGuru - what you say makes perfect sense, though given our current political climate, I do find it difficult to believe there isnt a political element somewhere in all this. I suspect neither side of the argument will point out or explain what you just so eloquently did. Whether or not it is political or politically motivated, it will sadly be politicized.
I agree with the comments. Nothing political, just purely not having access to DMV records would prevent DHS for making an informed decision.
The weird part is involving ICE with this topic, former director or not, this doesn't concern ICE.
It's just like media asking bloggers to analyze accidents and comment how NTSB should do their job.
Completely unrelated.
A DUI disqualifies an applicant for GE. Hence the need for access to driving records. I don't think it is political at all. If the state does not want to give the Feds access to those records, then the Feds don't have to give access to GE.
I’m glad it’s suspended for sanctuary NY. Hopefully for good.
Weirdly my wife's global entry renewal, which had been pending for close to a year and past the expiration by 5 months, finally cleared yesterday, and without an interview. We're in New York
"The logic is that New York state is issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants."
I think the logic is not that they are giving licenses, it's the part about not being allowed access to DMV records anymore. The global entry concept is about verifying you are a trustworthy person. You are the one saying they use DMV records to verify identity, I think they use the records to make sure you pay your fines, have...
"The logic is that New York state is issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants."
I think the logic is not that they are giving licenses, it's the part about not being allowed access to DMV records anymore. The global entry concept is about verifying you are a trustworthy person. You are the one saying they use DMV records to verify identity, I think they use the records to make sure you pay your fines, have valid registrations, don't have certain kinds of violations etc. since the qualifications require you be a "trusted" traveler.
I may not agree with some that comes out of the current administration - however this one does make sense.
Can’t say I’m surprised when the current occupant of the WH is a racist tyrant who acts like a petulant child when he doesn't get his way.
(BTW bravo Mitt! )