Congressman Serrano, Senator Schumer Welcome Extension of TPS Registration Deadline for Individuals from Ebola-Affected Nations

Press Release

Congressman José E. Serrano applauded today the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's decision to extend the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) registration deadline for eligible individuals from Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone -- the three ebola-affected nations.

In a letter sent in May this year, Congressman Serrano and Senator Schumer, along with 9 other Members of the New York delegation, urged Secretary Jeh Johnson to extend the May 20, 2015 deadline to ensure everyone eligible was able to apply and take advantage of the policy. Members of the community had expressed concerns over the DHS's lack of outreach to let people know about their eligibility and the still fragile situation in the region. With this announcement, the deadline has been extended from May 20, 2015, to Aug. 18, 2015.

"This is great news for the people from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone currently living in New York City and the rest of the United States who were not able to learn about and submit their applications for Temporary Protected Status previously. TPS is an important humanitarian tool, and this announcement will help provide relief for many individuals from ebola-affected nations who won't be forced to return to a still fragile region. I am glad Secretary Johnson has heeded our call and extended the deadline, so that more people can take advantage of it. For those who qualify, make sure to submit your application by August 18," said Congressman Serrano.

"It's good news that the TPS registration period was extended for ebola-wracked countries like Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. This critical extension will ensure that no one falls through the cracks while these countries are getting back on their feet following the ebola outbreak," said Senator Schumer.

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