I'm so confused by this whole story. Who what where why when? What were all the line options?

In my experience (on UA I know nothing of AA), there are 3 lines at most airports: Regular, Elite, and TSA Pre. Elites can use the regular Elite line and take off their shoes but there is no such thing as an Elite Pre line. The only people who can cut the Pre line are Clear and Crew. Is OP saying there was an Elite+Pre line at IAH??? Regardless, if the sign is gone then I guess they can't use it. Sorry.

The companion Pre issue is neither here nor there but they stopped handing it out a few years back. My mom always (like 100%) used to inherit mine. After half a dozen times waiting in line, she broke down and agreed to get it. I've been telling her to for years now. Would not bite the bullet on GE though :/