The decision by the Trump administration to rescind the extension of temporary protected status for around 600,000 Venezuelan immigrants in the United States has caused concern and uncertainty in Utah’s Venezuelan community. Many Venezuelans had applied for this program due to the political turmoil in their home country and fear for their safety if they were to return. The reversal of the extension, potentially ending protected status by April 3 or Sept. 10, has left many feeling vulnerable and unsure of their future in the country.
Advocates and community members are questioning the move, noting that Venezuelans followed U.S. regulations in applying for temporary protected status and have not engaged in criminal activity. The decision to rescind the extension comes at a time when Venezuelans in the United States are facing ongoing challenges under the Maduro regime back home.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s memo leaves open the possibility of another policy shift, with deadlines set for decisions on extending the end dates of the program. Advocacy groups, including those opposing the Maduro government in Venezuela, are urging for an extension of the TPS end date to protect Venezuelans in the United States from potential harm if they were to return.
Immigration attorney Carlos Trujillo advises Venezuelans in Utah with temporary protected status to wait for a final determination before taking action. If the TPS initiative ends, Venezuelans could consider applying for asylum given the political conditions in Venezuela. The Trump administration has not made any public statements regarding the extension of the TPS program for Salvadorans in the United States.
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