Federal Judge Blocks DHS Attempt to End Haiti TPS Early

A federal judge blocked the Trump administration's attempt to shorten Haiti's Temporary Protected Status (TPS), ruling that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem exceeded her authority by cutting the protections short from February 2026 to August 2025. Judge Brian Cogan stated that Noem's decision violated federal law and that TPS for Haitians must remain effective through February 3, 2026, restoring work authorization and deportation protections for over 500,000 Haitians. The ruling was welcomed by Haitian TPS holders and advocacy groups who argued that the early termination created irreparable harm, disrupting lives and exposing individuals to potential deportation to unsafe conditions in Haiti. Despite the court’s decision, the Trump administration intends to appeal, maintaining its position that TPS for Haitians will expire in September 2025. The Haitian community, especially in South Florida, expressed deep concern, highlighting the ongoing violence and instability in Haiti, which makes returning dangerous and inhumane. Local leaders and TPS recipients emphasized that ending the protections amid the country's turmoil is reckless and punishing vulnerable families who rely on TPS for safety and stability.