Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today introduced legislation to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for individuals from El Salvador for 18 months beginning September 6, 2026, ensuring Salvadoran TPS holders can continue living and working legally in the United States while conditions in El Salvador remain unsafe.
“As a refugee from Soviet Ukraine, I understand that forcing families back into dangerous and unstable conditions would be both cruel and shortsighted. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) exists to provide humanitarian relief to people who cannot safely return home,” said Vindman. “I’m proud to represent tens of thousands of Salvadorans who contribute to our communities and economy every day. This legislation upholds the values on which the United States was founded.”
The legislation would extend TPS protections and employment authorization for 18 months beginning September 6, 2026, due to ongoing safety concerns, natural disasters, economic instability, and gang violence in the country.
Hundreds of thousands of Salvadoran TPS holders have built their lives in the United States and are deeply rooted in communities across Virginia and the country. They contribute to the economy, support local businesses, work in essential industries, and raise families.
This legislation is backed by We are CASA and National Immigration Law Center.
“For the individuals who have built a family and life here in the United States over the last 25 years, the termination of Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador would be life-shattering,” says George Escobar, Executive Director at We are CASA. “We are talking about long-standing members of our community who have gotten married, had children, and even grandchildren. Many of them are healthcare workers, community leaders, and business owners across the country. This legislation will provide much-needed temporary relief to families who are under immediate threat, and we call on Congress to fight for the permanent protections for TPS holders and their families.”
Read the full bill text HERE.
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