TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs are suspended amid the government shutdown as general travelers are prioritized

As a partial government shutdown persists, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is suspending the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs.

These initiatives are designed to help registered travelers speed through security lines, and their suspension could create headaches for fliers.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated in a release that “shutdowns have serious real world consequences.” She also noted that “TSA and CBP are prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts.”

The partial shutdown began on February 14 after Democrats and the White House failed to reach an agreement on funding legislation for the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have been pushing for changes to immigration operations that are core to President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign.

Democratic members of the House Committee on Homeland Security criticized the airport security decision.

On social media, they said the administration was “kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure” and accused it of “ruining your travel on purpose.”

Airlines for America, a trade group representing major carriers, commented: “it’s past time for Congress to get to the table and get a deal done.”

The organization expressed “deep concern” that “the traveling public will be, once again, used as a political football amid another government shutdown.” It also criticized the Saturday evening announcement, noting it was “issued with extremely short notice to travelers, giving them little time to plan accordingly.”