New US Bill Could Open a Green Card Path for TPS Holders — Why Immigrants Should Act Now

A newly introduced immigration bill could bring new hope to thousands of immigrants living in the United States under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), many of whom are facing growing uncertainty about their future.

The bill was introduced by Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a Democratic politician from Florida who served as the U.S. Representative for Florida’s 20th Congressional District from January 2022 until April 2026. She introduced the Respect for Essential Workers Act, which could create a pathway to permanent residency for eligible TPS holders working in essential industries across the country.

Under the proposed legislation, qualifying TPS holders may be able to apply for a Green Card within 90 days of the bill becoming law. It would also provide protection from deportation for eligible individuals whose TPS status may expire.

This proposal comes at a time when many TPS holders are facing increased uncertainty. The U.S. government has recently moved to revoke or review protections for immigrants from several countries, including Afghanistan, Haiti, Venezuela, Syria, Nepal, Honduras, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Yemen, Myanmar, Ethiopia, and Cameroon.

If these protections end, thousands of immigrants could lose both their legal work authorization and their ability to remain in the United States. While some deportation efforts have been temporarily blocked by court rulings, those legal protections may not be permanent.

Cherfilus-McCormick has emphasized the major role TPS holders play in the U.S. economy, noting that many work in healthcare, construction, food supply, transportation, and other essential sectors that help keep communities running.

SIJS immigrants also face uncertainty

While TPS holders may have a potential pathway through new legislation, immigrants under Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) are facing separate challenges.

SIJS was created to protect minors who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment and offers a path toward permanent residency. However, reports indicate that some SIJS recipients have recently faced detention and deportation despite being on a legal path toward obtaining a Green Card.

Advocates say these enforcement actions are creating instability for young immigrants who are trying to build secure futures in the United States.

Why taking action now matters

Although the Respect for Essential Workers Act offers hope, it still must pass Congress before becoming law, and immigration legislation often faces delays and political hurdles.

That’s why immigrants should not wait for policy changes to determine their future.

Take action today. Also check out our immigration services.