TSA Global Entry Services Paused Due to Government Shutdown in US, PreCheck Services Continue

DHS Reverses TSA PreCheck Suspension After Travel Confusion

Well, that security plot twist did not last long. After initially announcing that TSA PreCheck would be suspended amid the partial government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has officially reversed course. Travelers can breathe a little easier as PreCheck lanes remain operational, at least for now.

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The confusion began when DHS stated that both PreCheck and Global Entry would shut down at 6 a.m. ET due to the ongoing funding lapse affecting the department. However, travelers Sunday morning were still moving through dedicated PreCheck lanes at airports including Ronald Reagan Washington National and Dulles International, prompting questions about what was actually happening at security checkpoints.

By midday, DHS clarified that TSA will evaluate operations on a case by case basis depending on staffing levels. In short, PreCheck is staying in place, though adjustments could happen if workforce shortages intensify. Global Entry’s status remains less clear, with Customs and Border Protection yet to provide a definitive update.

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Both programs are funded by member fees, not general tax dollars, which sparked criticism from the travel industry. The U.S. Travel Association applauded the decision to keep PreCheck operational and urged DHS to maintain Global Entry as well. With more than 20 million active PreCheck members and over 12 million Global Entry enrollees, suspending these trusted traveler programs would have sent security lines into full theme park opening day mode.

For Orlando bound travelers heading to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando, this reversal is good news. PreCheck lanes mean shoes stay on, laptops stay packed, and your airport experience can remain a pre show instead of a three hour queue. That said, the partial shutdown continues, and essential TSA officers are still working without pay, so operational hiccups are possible.

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