As Haiti continues to deal with economic hardship it is mistake to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians. Many Haitians who have come to the US and have been able to work in United States. There is an estimated 60,000 Haitians who are currently part of this program.  Haiti is still devastated from the earthquake of 2010 and the need for the US to help the most vulnerable is more urgent than ever.  The United States has always been a nation of immigrants.  The law suit filed by Ira Kaurzban and the National Immigration  Project off the National Lawyer's Guild in the Eastern District of New  York challenging the administration's  termination of TPS for Haitians is a step in the right direction.  Many Haitians are productive members in our society.  It  is important to note that as of now Haitians with TPS can remain in the US until July of 2019.   Updates to follow.

The pictures and stories of devastation from The  Philippines after Super Typhoon Haiyan landed in mid November are truly heart wrenching. Much like after the devastation of the earthquake in Haiti, (where Temporary Protected Status was granted to Haitians) it is important for the US government  to offer support to nationals of The Philippines. Out of  utter destruction from this natural catastrophe,   there is an opportunity for concrete action. The government of the Philippines has formally requested Temporary Protected Status. There are two major benefits to Filipinos in the United States if Temporary Protected Status is granted.  Generally both documented and undocumented Filipinos would be eligible to apply for Temporary Protection Status. In addition, they would be eligible to apply for work authorization.   There are always statutory requirements that generally do not allow for Filipinos with criminal records (either a felony conviction or 2 or more misdemeanor convictions) who would be eligible for Temporary Protected Status. It is always best to consult with an immigration attorney. Although nothing  can truly make up for the misery and hardship inflicted by Super Typhoon Haiyan, hopefully the U.S. government will grant Temporary Protected Status to Filipinos.