Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta released a statement following a legal decision by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California that prevents the Trump Administration from ending the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans as litigation is ongoing.

The court's decision came in response to a motion in the case of National TPS Alliance v. Noem, which delays termination efforts by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). TPS allows nationals of certain countries to stay in the United States due to crises in their home nations. Attorney General Bonta was among a group of 18 attorneys general who filed an amicus brief contesting DHS's approach to terminating TPS for Venezuelan nationals, many of whom have long been residing in the U.S. with their families.

In his statement, Attorney General Bonta noted, “The court rightfully blocked the Trump Administration’s unlawful early termination of the Venezuela TPS designation as litigation continues. This order helps protect vulnerable individuals who are fleeing a humanitarian crisis, in search of safety and a better life for their families.”

Bonta emphasized the importance of TPS holders to communities in California, highlighting their economic contributions, “California recognizes that TPS holders are integral parts of our communities and important contributors to our economy: They are our neighbors, co-workers, caregivers, and job-creators."

Currently, California hosts over 72,000 TPS beneficiaries, placing it fourth among U.S. states for TPS holders. The economic impact of these households in the state includes $2.1 billion in income, payment of $291.2 million in federal taxes, and $226.5 million in state and local taxes.

Attorney General Bonta concluded that the court's decision represents a significant victory for those with TPS status amid the Trump Administration's attempt to terminate these protections, stating, "This court decision is an important win in our fight to protect those with TPS status from the Trump Administration’s heartless and unjustified attacks.”

For more details, the court's order is available for reference.