LeadingAge National Calls on Department of Homeland Security to Extend Legal Status for Certain Non-Citizens
(May 5, 2025) On April 30th, LeadingAge National sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem urging immediate action to address the looming impact of recent immigration policy changes on the long-term care workforce. Specifically, LeadingAge National asked DHS to allow individuals with humanitarian parole under the Cuban/Haitian/Nicaraguan/Venezuelan program to remain in the U.S. for the duration of their authorized periods, to restore and extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians and Venezuelans, and to work together with stakeholders to explore more permanent immigration pathways for these essential workers.
The letter pointed to the current workforce crisis in the long-term care field and the struggle to meet the demand for long-term services and supports among the nation’s older adult population. It noted that foreign-born workers with legal status – including people with humanitarian parole and TPS from Haiti and Venezuela – play an important role in our workforce. "In addition to being essential employees, as caregivers they are trusted companions and vital members of the community at large," the letter stated. The full text of the letter is available here.
LeadingAge National and LeadingAge NY will continue to work with policymakers and members to seek immigration reform and workforce solutions.
Contact: Karen Lipson, klipson@leadingageny.org