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Trusted Traveler Programs Suspended Amid Budget Dispute

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. eler-programs-suspended-amid-budget-dispute.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 1:54 GMT by CBS News
      Locales: Various, Washington, UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - February 23rd, 2026 - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that suspensions of enrollment for crucial Trusted Traveler Programs - including TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST - remain in effect, now stretching into a protracted crisis stemming from ongoing budgetary disputes. What began as a partial government shutdown in December 2025, has evolved into a sustained period of operational disruption, raising serious concerns about the future of travel security and efficiency within the United States.

Initially announced on December 22nd, 2025, the suspension aimed to curtail operational costs amidst a lack of congressional appropriations. While existing members were initially assured continued access to expedited screening and customs processing, the situation has deteriorated. DHS now reports significant backlogs in renewal processing and increasingly limited capacity for even maintaining existing member status.

"The ongoing impasse in Congress continues to severely impact our ability to fully staff and operate vital security programs," stated DHS Secretary Amelia Vargas in a press conference this morning. "While we are doing everything possible to mitigate the effects, the continued lack of funding is now jeopardizing the long-term viability of these programs."

TSA PreCheck, lauded for its ability to expedite airport security for low-risk travelers, is experiencing a slowdown in vetting processes. This means a potentially longer wait time at security checkpoints as the number of PreCheck-approved passengers decreases due to expired memberships and the inability to onboard new applicants. Similarly, Global Entry, which streamlines customs processing for returning international travelers, faces mounting issues. The backlog of applications has surged, potentially causing significant delays at major U.S. ports of entry.

The impact extends beyond leisure travel. Business travelers, who rely on these programs for seamless international operations, are facing increased hurdles. Supply chains, already strained by global events, could experience further disruptions as cargo processing slows down. The NEXUS and SENTRI programs, facilitating faster border crossings with Canada and Mexico respectively, are similarly affected, potentially hindering trade and economic activity. FAST, targeted towards commercial truck drivers, is also facing suspension, impacting the movement of goods across the US-Canada-Mexico trade corridor.

Industry experts warn that the prolonged suspension could have lasting consequences. "These programs weren't just about convenience; they were a key component of a risk-based security approach," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a security analyst at the Institute for Homeland Security Studies. "By focusing resources on higher-risk travelers, TSA and CBP [Customs and Border Protection] could operate more efficiently. This suspension effectively dismantles that system, forcing everyone through the same cumbersome process."

The backlog isn't just a bureaucratic issue. DHS has been forced to furlough a significant number of personnel involved in the vetting and interview processes for these programs. Even those still working are operating under reduced capacity, further exacerbating the delays. The agency is attempting to prioritize critical functions related to immediate border security, but the Trusted Traveler Programs have been relegated to a lower priority.

Several airlines and travel industry groups have voiced their concerns, urging Congress to resolve the funding dispute. They argue that the suspension is detrimental to the economy and will ultimately undermine national security. The American Travel Industry Association released a statement calling for immediate action, highlighting the potential loss of billions of dollars in tourism revenue.

As the shutdown enters its seventh week, the future of the Trusted Traveler Programs hangs in the balance. DHS is exploring contingency plans, including potentially outsourcing some aspects of the vetting process, but these options are limited by budgetary constraints and security concerns. Travelers are advised to check the DHS website for the latest updates and prepare for potential delays. The disruption serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of critical infrastructure and the far-reaching consequences of political gridlock.