DHS suspending 2 travel programs amid shutdown
The Hill
by Sophie BramsFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that it will suspend two key programs aimed at expediting airport security screenings, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, beginning Sunday. This move comes as the agency continues to grapple with a partial shutdown that entered its second week. The suspension is expected to disrupt millions of travelers who rely on these programs for faster screening at airports nationwide.
The TSA PreCheck program allows eligible U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain frequent travelers to undergo less rigorous security checks at participating airports. Similarly, Global Entry provides similar benefits to pre-screened international travelers entering the United States. Both programs have been instrumental in reducing wait times at airports since their inception. However, the ongoing shutdown has forced DHS to prioritize essential operations over non-urgent services like these enrollment and processing activities.
The suspension of these programs is likely to cause significant inconvenience for travelers. Without TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, passengers can expect longer lines at security checkpoints, particularly during peak travel periods. The impact will be felt most by frequent flyers and international travelers who have invested time and effort into enrolling in these programs. While the DHS has not provided a specific timeline for when the programs might resume, it is clear that the shutdown is the primary reason behind this decision.
This action highlights the broader challenges posed by government shutdowns, particularly their impact on services that directly affect citizens’ daily lives. The
Verticals
politicsnews
Originally published on The Hill on 2/22/2026