Why are TSA PreCheck and Global Entry suspended?

Question

Hans Steiner · Accepted Answer

Travel programs paused as DHS loses funding for operations

A partial lapse in Department of Homeland Security funding forced the agency to halt certain discretionary programs that depend on active appropriations. Among the programs affected are expedited‑screening and trusted‑traveler initiatives run by DHS components, which were scheduled to stop functioning at 6 a.m. ET on Sunday because the department cannot legally continue some activities without an appropriation.

The suspension affects travelers and program operations in several concrete ways:

Enrollment and renewal services are put on hold, delaying background checks and interviews.
Known Traveler Numbers (KTNs) and enrolled‑traveler benefits may not be applied, which can slow airport security processing.
Administrative functions tied to program management — including routine travel and training that DHS funds — are curtailed until funding is restored.

Officials said the pause is temporary and tied directly to the shutdown of appropriations for parts of DHS. The duration depends on when Congress or the White House takes action to fund the agency. In the meantime, travelers should plan for longer security lines, arrive earlier at airports, and monitor official DHS and airline updates for when services resume. It’s still unclear exactly how quickly the programs can be restarted once funding is restored, because resuming background checks and scheduled interviews takes administrative lead time.