Biden’s Bold Move: Who Benefits from Extended Protected Status?

Man speaking at outdoor event with microphones and banner
DURHAM, NC - OCTOBER 18 2020: Joe Biden attended the GOTV Mobilization Event at Riverside High School - Durham, NC

The Biden administration’s decision to extend Temporary Protected Status for select countries will likely ignite political and legal debates over immigration policy’s future.

At a Glance

  • The extension covers nearly 1 million migrants from Sudan, Ukraine, El Salvador, and Venezuela.
  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS) allows migrants to stay due to conflict or instability in their home countries.
  • Critics argue the program needs more permanent solutions rather than temporary ones.
  • The Biden administration cites ongoing crises in home countries as the reason for this extension.

Background and Decision

The Biden administration has extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nearly 1 million migrants from Sudan, Ukraine, El Salvador, and Venezuela for an additional 18 months. This decision aligns with the original intent of the TPS program, which was established in 1990 to shield migrants from areas experiencing war or political unrest. Eligible individuals can stay in the U.S. with work permits and legal protection due to dire conditions in their home countries.

The decision impacts 1,900 Sudanese, 103,700 Ukrainians, 232,000 Salvadorans, and 600,000 Venezuelans, allowing them to contribute to U.S. communities while providing security. Alejandro Mayorkas, Homeland Security Secretary, emphasized, “These designations are rooted in careful review and interagency collaboration to ensure those affected by environmental disasters and instability are given the protections they need while continuing to contribute meaningfully to our communities.”

Historical Context and Policy Reversal

The TPS program was previously terminated under President Trump, affecting around 400,000 migrants. However, the Biden administration’s approach contrasts with this, extending protections and considering humanitarian crises in the designated countries. This move may provoke legal challenges if efforts to rescind it occur, as the TPS role is debated within the broader immigration policy landscape.

While Biden has expanded TPS eligibility, his decision does not broaden the eligibility scope as some advocate groups have called for. This administration has faced criticism for not extending TPS to certain groups like Palestinians and maintaining select stringent policies from the previous administration. TPS holders still lack permanent status with full rights, as Emi Maclean noted, “Today, TPS holders still do not have permanent residence, along with all the civil rights and political equality they deserve.”

Future of TPS and Immigration Policy

Legal challenges might arise with the possible re-election of Trump, who opposes the TPS program and questions its legality. This dynamic underscores the contentious and complex nature of U.S. immigration policy. The Biden administration supports the extension by citing ongoing violence and humanitarian crises as justifications. The debate continues as America grapples with the balance between security and humanitarian obligations.

Conservative voices have expressed concerns about the long-term impacts of such protections, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive immigration policy addressing both security and compassion. The TPS extension halts deportations for thousands, preserving their livelihoods. The ramifications for U.S. policy will be closely observed as the nation navigates these complex immigration issues.

Sources

1. Biden extends temporary status for immigrants from Ukraine, Venezuela

2. Biden admin announces sweeping deportation shield for nearly 1M migrants