Lauren Underwood: “The Immigration and Nationality Act outlines the conditions under which a country may be designated for temporary…”

“The Immigration and Nationality Act outlines the conditions under which a country may be designated for temporary protected status, and it requires periodic reviews to determine whether the conditions for the status continue to be met. Based on USCIS' latest review, the Secretary extended Honduras' TPS designation through July 5, 2025. Since the devastation caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1998, Honduras has continued to suffer from hurricanes, floods, tropical storms, and other natural disasters, making it difficult for the country to fully recover and allow for the safe return of individuals currently receiving TPS benefits. Honduras also continues to struggle with gang violence, drug trafficking, crime, and economic instability, which pose risks to the safety and well-being of any potential returnee. {time} 1515 I encourage my colleagues to take their concerns to the appropriate authorizing committee if the gentleman feels that the INA should be amended in any way, but singling out a country through this amendment process is an inappropriate way to handle this matter. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no,'' and I yield back the balance of my time.”