 is forcing a rare nationwide suspension of expedited airport screening programs, including TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, beginning Sunday morning.){kind=link}
A partial funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is forcing a rare nationwide suspension of expedited airport screening programs, including TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, beginning Sunday morning. The move is expected to cause longer lines at airports and ports of entry across the United States, particularly as winter weather disruptions and the upcoming spring break travel season strain the system.
Why TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Are Being Halted
DHS officials say the suspension is necessary to redirect personnel to standard screening operations during the shutdown. According to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, staff assigned to expedited programs will instead assist the broader traveling public.
The programs, which provide faster security screening for pre-approved travelers, were not paused during the previous year’s government shutdown—making this decision unusual and potentially more disruptive.
Longer Lines Expected Nationwide
The timing could worsen travel delays:
- A major winter storm has already caused thousands of flight cancellations nationwide.
- Airports are preparing for increased passenger volume as flights resume.
- Spring break travel demand is expected to surge in the coming weeks.
Without expedited screening lanes, travelers who normally rely on PreCheck or Global Entry may face standard security wait times.
Additional Impacts: FEMA Shifts Priorities
The shutdown is also affecting disaster preparedness. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will pause non-disaster operations to focus resources on active emergencies, highlighting the broader consequences of the funding lapse across DHS agencies.
Political Backlash and Industry Concerns
The decision has drawn criticism from lawmakers and travel industry leaders. Representative Bennie Thompson, the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, condemned the move, arguing it would increase wait times and place additional strain on unpaid federal workers.
Meanwhile, U.S. Travel Association warned that travelers should not be caught in political disputes, emphasizing that efficient travel is critical to the U.S. economy.
What Travelers Should Do Now
With expedited programs suspended, travelers should prepare for:
- Earlier airport arrival times (at least 2–3 hours before departure for domestic flights).
- Potentially longer customs processing for international arrivals.
- Continued disruptions from weather-related delays.
Officials say the suspension will remain in effect until DHS funding is restored.
For more on the TSA screening updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.