hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Stops deportation and offers green cards to essential TPS workers.
Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), referred to Judiciary Committee.
Introduced in House, no vote scheduled yet.
This bill protects certain Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders from removal if they work in essential industries like healthcare, food services, construction, or child care. It also lets them apply for a green card 90 days after the bill becomes law. The sponsor is a Democrat from Florida, and the bill sits in the House Judiciary Committee, which is the first step before a full House vote.
Introduced Mar 12, 2026
This bill has been introduced in its chamber of Congress. It has been assigned a bill number and referred to a committee for review. Most bills never advance past this stage. The committee may hold hearings, gather expert testimony, and amend the bill before deciding whether to send it to the full chamber for a vote.
The bill only covers TPS holders who work in listed essential industries or health shortage areas. Those not in those jobs remain subject to removal if their TPS ends. Employers in sectors like farming, meatpacking, and home care may have an easier time retaining experienced workers. The labor secretary and health agency decide which industries or areas qualify, so definitions could shift over time.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue the bill protects workers critical to the economy and public health, filling labor shortages and rewarding contributions.
Critics Say
Critics contend it rewards people who entered or stayed illegally, bypassing standard immigration processes and potentially encouraging more unauthorized entry.
Supporters, often labor and immigrant advocacy groups, point to TPS holders already working legally in essential roles and note that many have lived in the U.S. for years. Critics, including some immigration restriction advocates, worry that providing a path to permanent residence could incentivize future waves of migration and undermine rule of law.