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Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has warned that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck program may be suspended again due to the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown. This announcement follows a recent decision to maintain the program after initially considering its suspension. TSA PreCheck allows travelers to pass through airport security more quickly.
Secretary Noem told CNN that if the shutdown persists, DHS may need to prioritize staffing for standard security lanes, which are used by most travelers. "We prioritize security lanes as we can staff them," she explained, emphasizing the need to allocate resources where they are most needed.
The decision to keep TSA PreCheck operational came after discussions with the White House and the TSA. However, the Global Entry program remains suspended due to staffing constraints.
The initial suspension announcement drew criticism from elected officials and travelers. Democratic Representative Bennie Thompson, a ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee, criticized the decision, calling it a political maneuver. He stated, "TSA PreCheck and Global Entry REDUCE airport lines and ease the burden on DHS staff who are working without pay."
The decision to suspend the PreCheck program was reversed less than a day after it was announced. The TSA has advised airports that they can keep PreCheck lanes open if staffing allows.
As the shutdown continues, travelers may face longer wait times at airports, especially with the upcoming spring break travel rush. Secretary Noem also announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would halt all non-disaster-related responses to prioritize disaster relief efforts.