A memo from the Biden White House, obtained by Senator Eric Schmitt, reveals plans to expand a temporary immigration program to cover more than 3.1 million noncitizens. The document, dated from the final days of the administration, outlines steps to broaden eligibility for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). TPS allows individuals from countries facing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other emergencies to live and work in the United States legally for a set period.
The memo indicates the administration intended to designate or redesignate several countries for TPS, potentially bringing the total number of protected individuals to over 3.1 million. This would be a significant increase from current levels. According to the report, the plan was aimed at providing relief before the transition to the next administration.
Senator Schmitt, a Republican from Missouri, criticized the move, stating it would impose a massive immigration crisis on the incoming administration. He argued that the expansion would encourage more illegal immigration and strain public resources. The Biden administration has not publicly confirmed the memo's details.
Immigration remains a contentious issue in U.S. politics. TPS was created by Congress in 1990 to protect people from countries suffering temporary crises. Critics say the program has been used beyond its original intent, while supporters argue it provides necessary humanitarian relief.
The memo's release comes as the new administration prepares to take office. It is unclear whether the expansion plans were fully implemented before the end of the term.