Chicago – Attorney General Kwame Raoul has joined a coalition of 19 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in the case of Haitian Evangelical Clergy Association v. Trump. This legal action challenges the Trump administration's decision to end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians prematurely. TPS, instituted by Congress in 1990, allows nationals from certain countries dealing with armed conflicts, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions to reside in the United States.
Attorney General Raoul emphasized the importance of TPS for Haitian immigrants, noting, "Haitians who hold TPS designations have been forced to flee their home country due to conflicts and environmental disasters in their home country. Temporary Protected Status helps these immigrants who are eager to contribute to their new communities to do so while working toward a better life for their families," he said. He also mentioned his personal connection to the issue, stating, "I am the proud son of Haitian immigrants, and I know firsthand that Haitians enrich our communities with their vibrant culture while also making key contributions to support our state and national economies. I am committed to standing with my fellow attorneys general to protect processes that provide a path for TPS holders to work toward permanent residence in the U.S."
The coalition urges the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York to block the Trump administration's order, describing it as unlawful. They argue that the termination of TPS for Haitians would lead to several negative consequences, including:
- Irreparable harm to families by removing work authorization and exposing individuals to potential deportation.
- Economic harm to states, as TPS holders, including the Haitian community, contribute significantly to state economies.
- Increased healthcare costs and risks to public health.
- Challenges in law enforcement and public safety across various jurisdictions.
The amicus brief was filed with the support of attorneys general from California, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.