A US federal judge has struck down a controversial Trump-era policy that aimed to revoke Temporary Protected Status (TPS) from hundreds of thousands of migrants, ruling it as "arbitrary and capricious".
The decision, delivered on Friday, protects migrants from El Salvador, Honduras, Haiti, and other nations designated for TPS—a humanitarian program allowing individuals to live and work in the US due to unsafe conditions in their home countries.
Judge Criticises Trump Administration’s Approach
The ruling sharply criticised the Trump administration’s 2018 move to terminate TPS for several countries, stating that officials "failed to consider key factors" and ignored evidence of ongoing instability in those nations.
"The court finds that the decision to rescind TPS was not in accordance with law," the judge wrote, emphasising that the policy lacked proper justification.
Impact on Migrant Communities
Advocates celebrated the decision, calling it a "lifeline" for families who have built lives in the US over decades. Many TPS holders have American-born children and deep community ties.
However, the ruling may face appeals, prolonging legal uncertainty for affected individuals.
What’s Next for TPS Holders?
While the injunction provides temporary relief, long-term solutions remain uncertain. Advocates urge Congress to pass legislation granting permanent residency to TPS recipients.
For now, beneficiaries can continue working and living in the US without fear of immediate deportation.
