In the kitchen of Half Shell Raw Bar in Key West, Florida, a Haitian worker with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) cooked mussels on July 24, 2026. Just days later, on July 27, his employment was suspended due to the expiration of work permits for many Haitians with temporary status.
The U.S. administration recently ended TPS for hundreds of thousands of Haitians. These individuals had been legally working and contributing before losing their work authorization and deportation protections. With this change, many Haitians are looking to Canada and other countries for refuge. They leave the U.S., taking valuable skills and knowledge needed in the workforce, especially in healthcare and senior care sectors.
States with significant Haitian populations, such as Florida, feel the impact of this loss acutely. The potential movement of these skilled workers to economic competitors intensifies the concern. Although TPS is not intended to be permanent, ending it abruptly for Haitians highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive immigration solution. This holds importance for the individuals who have built lives in the U.S., as well as for employers and communities relying on their contributions.
Republican Ohio Governor Mike DeWine emphasized that ending protections for Haitians would adversely affect his state, particularly Springfield, where many Haitians reside. He stated, “These are people who have helped Springfield really come back.”
The dangerous situation in Haiti is another pressing concern. Faith leaders across Ohio, Florida, Maryland, and elsewhere have urged a compassionate approach for former TPS recipients. DeWine predicted that many Haitians would flee to other countries to avoid returning to unsafe conditions in Haiti. Echoing this sentiment, a Haitian from Florida testified to the fear of returning, saying, “‘Scary’ doesn’t even encompass what goes through my mind right now.”
To prevent Haitians from seeking safety elsewhere and inadvertently aiding economic competitors, Republicans and Democrats should collaborate on a viable solution. A bipartisan bill passed by the U.S. House in April offers a short-term fix by potentially restoring TPS for Haitians. However, a more permanent solution is needed to stabilize communities, cater to America’s economic needs, and uphold human dignity. This will prioritize the U.S. and not its competitors.
Jennie Murray, president and CEO of the Forum, advocates for such solutions as the way forward.