Rep. Sykes Votes to Protect Haitian Families, Advance TPS Legislation

April 16, 2026 Rep. Sykes Votes to Protect Haitian Families, Advance TPS Legislation WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted for H.R. 1689, requiring the Department of Homeland Security to designate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) through January 20, 2029. Rep. Sykes also previously signed a bipartisan discharge petition to bring the measure to the House floor, supporting protections for Haitian families in Ohio and across the country, including an estimated 15,000 people living in Springfield. “Haitian families are an important part of our communities, and they deserve stability while their home country faces ongoing violence and instability,” said Rep. Sykes. “At a time when President Trump continues his attacks on Haitian immigrants and his administration shows a troubling lack of empathy, this bipartisan vote is about doing what’s right. We need to keep families safe and allow them to continue contributing to our communities without fear.” Right now, TPS protections for Haitian nationals are uncertain as the Trump administration pushes to end them. Rep. Sykes’ vote supports extending those protections, helping ensure families in Ohio and nationwide can continue living and working safely in the United States. The resolution passed the House and now heads to the Senate for consideration. Print Email Share Tweet