Temporary Protected Status Reform Act of 2026.
Summary
The "Temporary Protected Status Reform Act of 2026" aims to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon. It prohibits the redesignation of these countries for TPS unless expressly authorized by a future statute. The Act provides a 180-day period for affected individuals to depart the United States or obtain an independent lawful immigration status.
Expected Effects
This act will result in the termination of TPS for individuals from the specified countries. Consequently, affected individuals will lose their lawful presence and work authorization in the US unless they obtain an alternative legal status. The bill seeks to limit executive branch discretion regarding TPS extensions and returns authority to Congress.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces long-term strain on social services and resources.
- Reinforces the original intent of TPS as a temporary form of relief.
- Clarifies congressional authority over immigration matters.
- May streamline immigration processes by reducing the number of individuals in temporary status.
- Could encourage Congress to address comprehensive immigration reform.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Disrupts the lives of individuals and families who have resided in the US for extended periods under TPS.
- May lead to increased deportations and family separations.
- Could negatively impact local economies that rely on the labor of TPS recipients.
- May create humanitarian concerns for individuals returning to unstable or dangerous conditions in their home countries.
- Could damage the international reputation of the United States as a haven for those in need.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with Article I of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to establish a uniform rule of naturalization and regulate immigration. Section 8, Clause 4 explicitly gives Congress the power to "establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization". The Act seeks to reassert congressional control over immigration policy by limiting executive discretion in TPS designations. However, the Act's impact on individual rights and due process could raise concerns under the Fifth Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).