TSA PreCheck & Global Entry Suspended Due to DHS Funding Lapse

Travel delays expected as expedited screening programs are temporarily halted

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Department of Homeland Security is temporarily suspending its TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to a lapse in funding. This is expected to lead to longer lines at airports and ports of entry, potentially causing frustration for travelers. The suspension comes as over 5,000 flights have already been cancelled due to an anticipated winter storm, and just weeks before the start of the spring break travel season.

Why it matters

The suspension of these trusted traveler programs during a period of already heightened travel disruption represents a significant trade-off between security resource allocation and traveler convenience. It's likely to exacerbate existing delays and potentially strain airport staff.

The details

According to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, TSA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are prioritizing the general traveling population and suspending 'courtesy and special privilege escorts.' The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will also halt 'all non-disaster related response to prioritize disasters.' The suspension is described as rare and comes as a surprise, as the programs were not suspended during last year's government shutdown.

  • The suspension is expected to begin at 6 a.m. ET on Sunday.
  • The suspension comes just weeks before the start of the spring break travel season.

The players

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency responsible for the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs, which are being temporarily suspended due to a lapse in funding.

Kristi Noem

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

Bennie Thompson

The ranking Democratic member on the House Homeland Security Committee, who criticized the decision to suspend the programs.

U.S. Travel

A travel industry organization that expressed disappointment over the suspension and stated that travelers should be prioritized, not leveraged.

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What’s next

It remains to be seen how long these programs will remain suspended and what the ultimate impact will be on travelers and the broader travel industry.

The takeaway

The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs during a period of heightened travel disruption highlights the difficult balance between security priorities and traveler convenience. This move is expected to cause significant frustration for travelers and strain airport operations, underscoring the need for a long-term solution to funding challenges facing the Department of Homeland Security.