A bipartisan bill has been introduced that would provide a permanent pathway for citizenship for recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, also known as Dreamers. The bill would establish specific eligibility criteria, including continuous residency in the United States, completion of higher education or military service, and passing a background check to ensure good moral character. If passed, hundreds of thousands of people who have lived in the U.S. since childhood would receive permanent legal status.
They say the Dreamers are already embedded in American society, contributing to the economy and their communities. Backers also hailed the proposal, citing that so many of the Dreamers live in uncertainty and anxiety due to the lack of permanent protections. Proponents say the public overwhelmingly supports granting a pathway to citizenship for the Dreamers.
Critics also worry that the legislation would encourage illegal immigration, adding that any legalization program must be accompanied by clear enforcement measures. Other lawmakers say the bill should be attached to other reforms aimed at changing the broader immigration system, such as border security or visa programs.
The proposed legislation reflects the continued bipartisan effort to find a solution for Dreamers' status. Its success will depend upon navigating deep political divides and addressing concerns from supporters and opponents alike. If enacted, the new law would be a landmark turn in U.S. immigration policy and would give much-needed stability to thousands of young immigrants.
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