This bill changes the procedures for designating a country with temporary protected status (TPS) and places restrictions on who is allowed to benefit from this status. (Qualified nationals of a TPS-designated country are eligible for work authorization and may not be removed from the United States while the status is in effect.)
Specifically, the bill requires an act of Congress to designate a TPS country, whereas currently the Department of Homeland Security has such authority. The initial act of designating a TPS country must include a time period for the designation of up to 18 months and also contain certain information, including an estimate of the number of individuals who would benefit from the status. Congress may also pass an act to terminate or extend a designation.
The bill also establishes that a non-U.S. national ( alien under federal law) who lacks lawful immigration status may not receive the benefits of temporary protected status.