Biden Extends Deportation Relief for 900,000 Immigrants Ahead of Trump Transition
President Joe Biden has extended deportation relief for 900,000 immigrants under the Temporary Protected Status program for an additional 18 months, allowing them to work legally and remain in the U.S. The move anticipates challenges from the incoming Trump administration, which has previously sought to eliminate such protections.
On Friday, President Joe Biden’s administration announced an extension of deportation relief under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program for 900,000 immigrants from Venezuela, El Salvador, Ukraine, and Sudan. This renewal provides these individuals with an additional 18 months of protection from deportation, allowing them to remain legally in the United States and continue to access work permits. This decision comes in light of concerns over potential changes that could arise with the upcoming presidency of Donald Trump, who has previously indicated intentions to roll back various immigration protections.
Since taking office in 2021, President Biden has significantly broadened TPS eligibility, which now encompasses over 1 million individuals from 17 countries facing humanitarian crises, including armed conflict and natural disasters. While this recent extension is viewed as a positive development for many immigrants, advocates urge the administration to consider expanding TPS to include additional countries and more recent arrivals. Todd Schulte, president of the advocacy organization FWD.us, highlighted the importance of granting TPS as a means for these individuals to “continue contributing to their communities, supporting their families, and strengthening the economy.” Furthermore, it is noted that approximately 600,000 Venezuelans currently qualify for TPS, representing the largest demographic within the program, due to ongoing political unrest and economic instability under the Maduro administration.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a form of humanitarian relief that allows individuals from designated countries experiencing crises, such as natural disasters or significant civil strife, to remain in the United States without the threat of deportation. Under the Biden administration, TPS has been expanded, reflecting increased consideration for the precarious situations faced by immigrants from various nations. The upcoming transition of power to President-elect Donald Trump, who has a history of seeking to limit TPS, has prompted the Biden administration to act in order to provide continued protection for these vulnerable populations.
The Biden administration’s extension of TPS for immigrants from Venezuela, El Salvador, Ukraine, and Sudan is a significant move that protects nearly one million individuals from deportation for an additional 18 months. This decision underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations amid ongoing humanitarian crises. Advocacy groups are calling for further expansions to include more countries and individuals, emphasizing the contributions these immigrants make to society and the economy.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
