BREAKING: Judge Stays TPS Termination, But Uncertainty Lingers for Key West Workers
Federal ruling blocks loss of protections for Haitians as service-sector concerns persist.
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian nationals, halting the planned loss of work authorization and deportation protections just days before they were set to expire.
U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued the order from Washington, D.C., ruling that the government’s decision to end Haitian TPS is “null, void, and of no legal effect” while a legal challenge proceeds. The stay preserves protections for an estimated 350,000 Haitian nationals nationwide.
In Key West, where immigrant labor supports much of the tourism economy, workers said the ruling provided limited relief.
Hotel housekeepers, dishwashers, laundry workers and drivers reported continued concern amid broader immigration enforcement activity and uncertainty over how long the stay will remain in effect.
Key West’s hotels and restaurants rely heavily on Haitian and Latino workers to staff housekeeping departments, restaurant kitchens and transportation services. Local advocates said the uncertainty has disrupted work schedules and family planning for many households.
“People are still scared,” said a hotel worker from Stock Island who requested anonymity. “Nothing feels settled.”
Business owners warned that staffing instability during peak tourism season could affect hotel operations, restaurant service and transportation availability.
The order does not grant permanent legal status and does not shield workers from unrelated immigration actions. It pauses only the termination of TPS while the case moves forward.
For now, TPS protections remain in effect under the court’s order. Workers said the pause offers temporary relief but little long-term clarity.
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