Comment Submitted by And K

I respectfully submit this comment to USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security as a person who was given the opportunity to remain in the United States through a humanitarian program. I am grateful to the United States for providing safety and the opportunity to build a future, and I respectfully ask that the ability to work legally be preserved for individuals granted humanitarian parole. I respectfully request that USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) preserve access to Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for individuals granted humanitarian parole, including Ukrainian nationals admitted to the United States through humanitarian programs. Humanitarian parole under INA §212(d)(5) was created for individuals facing urgent humanitarian circumstances. People granted humanitarian parole are lawfully present in the United States and have the ability to make positive contributions to American communities and the economy. Employment authorization is an essential tool that allows individuals to support themselves independently, pay taxes, contribute to American businesses, and reduce the need for government or charitable assistance. Delays or restrictions on EAD issuance create financial hardship for people who are already lawfully present in the United States. The ability to work legally benefits not only individuals and their families, but also the American economy, employers, and local communities. Ukrainians with humanitarian parole are working in important areas, including construction, healthcare, elder care, childcare, manufacturing, logistics, education, technology, and small businesses. Many Ukrainians also start their own businesses, purchase equipment, rent commercial spaces, and support local economies through their work and spending. For me and my family, the ability to obtain and maintain work authorization is extremely important. It allows us to support ourselves independently, pay for housing, taxes, insurance, and everyday expenses. We want to work legally, follow the laws of the United States, and be active and responsible members of our communities. The ability to work gives us the opportunity to build a stable future, support the local economy, and fulfill our responsibilities as law-abiding residents of the United States. I respectfully ask USCIS and DHS to consider the economic, humanitarian, and social importance of preserving access to employment authorization for individuals granted humanitarian parole. Thank you for considering my comment.