State Rep. Steve Frisbie (R-Battle Creek) is requesting that the federal government consider a temporary pause in the implementation of a Department of Homeland Security order that would affect Burmese nationals currently protected under Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Frisbie sent a letter this week to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem encouraging a careful review of the order before it takes effect, noting potential impacts on families, workers, and communities in Battle Creek and Springfield Michigan.

“The individuals affected by this decision are long-standing members of our communities,” said Frisbie. “They work hard, raise their families, and contribute to our local economy. Sending them back to Myanmar could put them in serious danger and tear apart the lives they’ve built here.”

TPS was granted to Burmese nationals due to ongoing instability and humanitarian concerns in Myanmar, and these conditions remain uncertain.

In his letter, Frisbie encouraged the Department of Homeland Security to take a balanced and deliberate approach that considers both enforcement priorities and humanitarian factors, particularly the uncertainty rapid implementation could create for affected families.

“These are families who are established members of our community,” said Frisbie. I respectfully ask federal officials to review the available information and consider the real-life circumstances these families face.”