DHS Reverses Decision to Suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

The agency had planned to divert resources to assist the general traveling public amid a winter storm.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Department of Homeland Security has abruptly reversed its decision to temporarily suspend the Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to a lapse in funding. The initial plan called for DHS personnel assigned to these programs to be redirected to assist the broader traveling public, as travelers braced for longer lines to clear security. However, the TSA later said that PreCheck will remain operational with no change for the traveling public.

Why it matters

The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry would have caused significant disruptions for pre-vetted travelers, leading to longer wait times at airports just weeks before the spring break travel rush. The decision and its quick reversal highlight the ongoing challenges facing the federal government during budget impasses and the impact on the traveling public.

The details

The Department of Homeland Security had initially announced the suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs, citing staffing constraints and a need to prioritize the general traveling population. However, less than a day later, the TSA said that PreCheck will remain operational, and that airports can keep their PreCheck lanes open if they have enough staffing. The decision to suspend the programs was also accompanied by an announcement that the Federal Emergency Management Agency would halt all non-disaster related response to prioritize disasters.

  • On Sunday, February 23, 2026, the suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry was initially announced by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
  • Later on Sunday, the TSA reversed the decision, stating that PreCheck will remain operational with no change for the traveling public.

The players

Kristi Noem

The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who initially announced the suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

Bennie Thompson

The ranking member on the House Homeland Security Committee who criticized the decision to suspend the programs, calling it a "purposeful punishment" of the American people.

U.S. Travel

A non-profit organization representing the nation's travel industry that expressed disappointment with the decision and criticized the move, stating that "Travelers should be prioritized, not leveraged."

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is Trump and Kristi Noem purposely punishing the American people and using them as pawns for their sadistic political games.”

— Bennie Thompson, Ranking member on the House Homeland Security Committee (ABC News)

“Travelers should be prioritized, not leveraged. Travel is the gateway to the American economy and Americans should not have their mobility, security or travel experience diminished because elected leaders fail to resolve their differences.”

— U.S. Travel (X)

What’s next

The TSA will continue to evaluate staffing constraints on a case-by-case basis and adjust operations accordingly to keep the flying public safe.

The takeaway

The reversal of the decision to suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry highlights the ongoing challenges facing the federal government during budget impasses and the need to prioritize the needs of travelers, especially during peak travel seasons, over political disputes.