HOUSTON – A federal judge in California has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s effort to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans — a ruling that has major implications for the estimated 350,000 TPS holders across the U.S., including many in the Greater Houston area.
The decision comes just days before key deadlines that would have stripped Venezuelan TPS holders of their legal ability to work and remain in the country. Work permits were set to expire on April 3, and deportation protections were scheduled to end by April 7.
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TPS is a program designed to protect foreign nationals from countries experiencing war, natural disasters, or political instability. It allows them to live and work legally in the U.S. for a designated period — but the program’s future has often been uncertain, changing with each administration.
‘We Can Breathe Easier’
For Héctor Chávez, a Venezuelan TPS holder and business owner in Katy, the ruling feels like a moment of relief after weeks of anxiety.
“Fortunately, everything turned out well for us,” Chávez said in Spanish. “And thank you — thank you for that, and for being able to feel more at ease, at least for a little while.”
Chávez came to the United States several years ago fleeing instability and economic collapse in Venezuela. He started over from scratch, building a small business in the Houston area and creating a life with his family. He says many Venezuelans like him are hardworking, honest people trying to live peacefully in the U.S.
“That they see us, I mean, that they see us, that they understand us, that they take the time to get to know us a little,” he said. “Maybe yes, undeniably, some came and did harm. But like I said before, there are many more of us who are doing good, who are working, and who are fighting to keep getting better every day.”
For Chávez, the ruling doesn’t just delay the threat of deportation — it gives families like his a renewed sense of hope.
“This is not just about papers,” he said. “It’s about dignity. About showing people that we belong here too.”
Legal Perspective: ‘Temporary Means Just That’
Immigration attorney John Hayes says the court’s decision is a major victory for Venezuelans, but also a reminder that TPS is not a long-term solution.
“The risk of deportation is always there,” Hayes said. “If you’re in the U.S. without legal status, ICE can come after you and deport you if it’s proven you don’t have the right to be here.”
Hayes works closely with TPS holders and other immigrants across Texas. He says the court’s ruling gives people breathing room — but only temporarily.
“It’s essential for people with TPS to stay educated, stay informed, and start planning now,” he said. “This pause could be reversed, and when that happens, you don’t want to be caught off guard.”
Beyond legality, Hayes also points to the broader impact Venezuelan immigrants have on the economy and communities.
“These are people who work in industries that keep our economy going,” he said. “Restaurants, construction, landscaping, services — they pay taxes, they spend money, they contribute like anyone else.”
He added that while TPS is temporary, many Venezuelans are actively working to gain permanent residency or explore other legal pathways to stay.
“They’re not just here waiting for handouts,” Hayes said. “They’re here working, building businesses, raising families, and contributing in meaningful ways.”
Not Everyone Supports the Ruling
While the decision is being praised by civil rights groups and immigrant advocates, not all lawmakers agree. Texas Representative Randy Weber issued a strong statement criticizing the ruling and calling it a step away from upholding U.S. immigration laws.
“This judge’s decision is misguided and undermines the rule of law—TPS was never meant to be permanent, and the conditions in Venezuela have changed. While I sympathize with families facing uncertainty, the solution isn’t judicial activism—it’s enforcing the law as written and securing our border. Congress doesn’t need to create more loopholes. Thankfully, we now have leadership in the White House that respects our laws and puts American citizens first.”— Rep. Randy Weber (R-Texas)
Weber’s comments reflect the ongoing political divide around TPS and broader immigration policy. While some lawmakers call for permanent protections or legal pathways for long-term TPS holders, others argue that the system is being misused.
What Happens Next?
The ruling prevents the termination of Venezuelan TPS for now, but the legal battle is not over. The case is expected to continue through the courts, and future decisions could change the fate of thousands of Venezuelans once again.
In the meantime, immigration attorneys like Hayes are urging people to act — not wait.
“Don’t assume this will last forever,” Hayes said. “Start gathering documents, looking at your options, and talking to legal professionals now.”
For Chávez and others in the Houston area, that advice is already being taken to heart. But for now, they’re embracing this moment of stability.
“We can breathe a little easier,” Chávez said. “We just want to work, to live in peace, and to be seen for who we really are.”
