Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Apr. 13 that he co-led a group of 19 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court, asking it to uphold Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations for Haiti and Syria. The brief was filed in the cases Trump v. Miot and Mullin v. Doe, challenging the Trump administration’s decision to end TPS protections for immigrants from these countries.
The coalition argues that maintaining TPS is important because it protects individuals who cannot safely return to their home countries due to war or natural disasters, while also supporting local economies and public services.
“I am a proud son of Haitian immigrants, so this issue is personal to me,” Raoul said. “TPS protects the health and safety of Haitian and Syrian immigrants who significantly contribute to our state and national economies. I will continue to work with my colleagues in urging the U.S. Supreme Court to extend the protection they deserve.”
Haitian nationals have been eligible for TPS since a major earthquake struck Haiti in 2010, with extensions granted due to ongoing violence and instability. Syrians have held TPS since civil war began in their country in 2012, with repeated extensions given continued conflict affecting food security, healthcare access, clean water availability, and civilian safety.
The Trump administration moved in November 2025 to terminate these protections despite both nations still being classified as “Level 4: Do Not Travel” by the U.S. State Department—its highest risk warning level—and without evidence of improved conditions.
Lower courts preserved TPS protections as litigation continues; however, the Supreme Court agreed in March 2026 to hear both cases but has delayed any decision on lifting current blocks until it rules on their merits.
Raoul’s office highlights that together Haitian and Syrian TPS holders contribute over $3.5 billion annually nationwide through roles such as healthcare providers, teachers, entrepreneurs, construction workers, among others.
According to the official website, the Illinois Attorney General has advocated for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants and seniors; handled thousands of consumer complaints each year; aimed at protecting consumers while promoting safer communities; extended advocacy efforts across Illinois; partnered with law enforcement agencies; supported crime victims; promoted open government initiatives; and offered services such as complaint filing related to consumer fraud or civil rights issues.
