February 18, 2026
A coalition of seventeen U.S. states, joined by the District of Columbia, intervened in federal court to defend the continuation of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian nationals. In an amicus brief filed in Miot v. Trump, the attorneys general argue that “conditions do not yet allow for a safe and durable return to Haiti.”
They contend that the attempt to end the program fails to comply with federal legal requirements, directly challenging the decision advanced by Kristi Noem. According to them, the administrative action ignores documented security and humanitarian realities, even as Haiti remains at the highest alert level according to U.S. authorities.
The states argue that ending TPS would have immediate impacts within their jurisdictions, noting that “families would be separated, economic sectors weakened, and public safety affected.” They emphasize that thousands of beneficiaries hold essential jobs and contribute to local economies.
Practically, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services confirmed that TPS-related work authorizations are set to expire on March 15, 2026, pending a final judicial decision. The agency advises employers to monitor developments closely, indicating that the litigation’s outcome will have immediate and tangible consequences.
