TSA PreCheck Remains Operational Despite Government Shutdown

Airport delays minimal so far as TSA adjusts staffing to maintain expedited screening

Feb. 23, 2026 at 1:51am

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Despite an initial announcement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicating a suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to the ongoing partial government shutdown, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirmed that PreCheck would continue to operate without immediate changes for travelers. This reversal sparked confusion, as the shutdown threatened to disrupt expedited security screening for millions.

Why it matters

The partial government shutdown, stemming from a disagreement between Democrats and the White House over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, raised concerns about the potential disruption to popular travel security programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. The TSA's decision to maintain PreCheck operations avoids major travel delays, but the long-term stability of these programs remains uncertain during political gridlock.

The details

The TSA quickly clarified that PreCheck would remain 'operative without changes for the public traveler,' stating it would evaluate staffing limitations on a case-by-case basis and adjust operations accordingly. As of Sunday midday, reports indicated minimal disruption at airports, with wait times in security lines remaining below 15 minutes at most major international airports. However, the status of Global Entry, a program allowing pre-approved travelers to expedite customs processing, remained less clear.

  • The partial government shutdown began on February 14th, 2026.
  • On February 23rd, 2026, the TSA confirmed that PreCheck would continue to operate without immediate changes.

The players

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that initially announced the suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to the government shutdown.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The agency that quickly reversed the DHS announcement and confirmed that PreCheck would remain operational without changes.

Amy Wainscott

A traveler who reported passing through TSA PreCheck without issue, only learning about the initial suspension announcement after completing the screening process.

Jean Fay

Another traveler who reported passing through TSA PreCheck without issue.

U.S. Travel Association

An industry group that expressed relief at the TSA's decision to maintain PreCheck operations, calling it a move to avoid a 'self-created crisis.'

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.