Homeland security reverses course on TSA PreCheck suspension

The Guardian World

by Edward Helmore and agencies

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Homeland Security has partially reversed its decision to suspend TSA PreCheck amid a partial government shutdown caused by staffing shortages. While TSA PreCheck continues to operate without changes for travelers, Global Entry remains halted. DHS officials have stated that TSA will monitor staffing constraints and adjust operations as needed on a case-by-case basis. The suspension of these programs was initially implemented due to the ongoing partial government shutdown, which has led to insufficient personnel at airports nationwide. This has created challenges for maintaining efficient security screening processes. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has assured travelers that TSA PreCheck services remain unaffected and will stay operational despite potential staffing issues. This decision comes after reports highlighted widespread concerns about the impact of the shutdown on airport security operations. Travelers who rely on TSA PreCheck for faster screening may still experience disruptions if staffing shortages persist in certain areas. Meanwhile, Global Entry, which provides expedited clearance for frequent travelers, remains suspended, leaving many travelers without a reliable way to navigate through airports efficiently. The partial reversal by DHS reflects the delicate balance between maintaining security and addressing workforce limitations during the shutdown. As the shutdown continues, the ability of Homeland Security to keep essential programs operational will remain under scrutiny. This situation underscores the challenges of managing critical infrastructure during periods of political and operational uncertainty.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026