Washington (November 20, 2017) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement on the Trump Administration's decision to terminate temporary protective status for Haitians:

"The Trump Administration has continued its heartless approach to those who have sought a safe haven from their devastated homeland. Haitians have suffered greatly.  Tens of thousands still live in tent cities and hundreds of thousands continue to face food insecurity in their country. President Trump and the Department of Homeland Security have arbitrarily targeted a community that both contributes greatly to the United States and supports their families back home in Haiti.  It is unconscionable that, just days before Thanksgiving, the Trump Administration would turn its back on those who still remain in need of assistance."

Senator Markey is an original cosponsor of the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and in Emergency (SECURE) Act. This legislation would allow qualified Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients to apply for legal permanent residency. 

###