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DHS Reverses Decision to Suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry
The agency had planned to temporarily halt the expedited security programs due to funding issues, but quickly reversed course.
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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The Department of Homeland Security has abruptly reversed a decision to temporarily suspend the Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to what the agency described as a lapse in funding. The suspension was initially announced by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem but was walked back less than a day later, with the TSA stating that PreCheck will remain operational.
Why it matters
The suspension of these expedited security programs would have caused longer wait times and disruptions for travelers at airports across the country, especially as the spring break travel rush approaches. The decision and reversal highlight the ongoing funding and staffing challenges facing government agencies.
The details
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 airports can keep their PreCheck lanes open if they have enough staffing, and that courtesy escorts for members of Congress have been suspended to redirect those resources towards keeping the flying public safe.
- The suspension was initially announced on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
- The reversal of the decision occurred less than a day later.
The players
Kristi Noem
The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who initially announced the suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
The agency that oversees the PreCheck and Global Entry programs, which allow expedited clearance processes for pre-vetted domestic and international travelers.
Bennie Thompson
The ranking member on the House Homeland Security Committee, who criticized the decision to suspend the PreCheck program as a political move to punish the American people.
U.S. Travel
A non-profit organization that represents the nation's travel industry, which expressed disappointment and criticized the move to suspend the programs.
What’s next
The TSA and DHS will continue to monitor staffing levels and adjust operations as needed to keep the flying public safe, especially as the spring break travel season approaches.
The takeaway
The reversal of the decision to suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry highlights the ongoing challenges facing government agencies in balancing security, staffing, and the needs of travelers. It underscores the importance of maintaining critical expedited security programs, even in the face of funding and resource constraints.
