The Supreme Court on Friday allowed the Trump administration to proceed with ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelan migrants, reversing a lower court’s block on the policy. This decision permits the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to revoke protections that shield Venezuelans from deportation and allow them to work legally in the U.S.

TPS, created by Congress in 1990, grants temporary safe haven to nationals from countries facing disasters or conflict. While the program initially provided relief during emergencies, Trump argued it was misused by previous administrations as a long-term immigration solution. The Court’s ruling is seen as a major victory for his administration but has raised alarm among immigrant advocates.

Though focused on Venezuelans, the ruling could affect other TPS-designated groups like Haitians, Hondurans, and Salvadorans. Advocacy groups warn that thousands have already faced job losses and housing instability due to these policy changes. Jorge Lowery of the National TPS Alliance called the decision a threat to humanitarian protections nationwide.

The order split the Court, with Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson dissenting sharply. She criticized the majority for rushing the decision and prioritizing executive power over the stability of immigrant families. The ruling does not affect Haitians, who remain protected for now.

Immigration attorneys say the ruling creates uncertainty for affected individuals unsure if their work permits remain valid or if deportation is imminent. Despite the setback, advocates pledge to continue fighting for TPS protections in lower courts, emphasizing the need for stability for immigrant families.