THE DREAM ACT AND THE DREAMERS
On June 15, 2012, President Obama introduced a program under Executive Order powers dubbed the “DREAM ACT” and the young illegal immigrants as “DREAMERS.”[1] The DREAMERS consist of over 2 million young immigrants brought to the United States sometimes by their parents and sometimes by smugglers called “Coyotes.” Our President eloquently described the DREAMERS as:
“Americans in their hearts, in their minds, in every single way but one: on paper.”
The DREAMERS can now come out of their shadow world, working for cash “under the table” and not protected by workplace safety measures. Now these immigrants can work without fear of deportation and removal. While not granted permanent legal status at this time, these young immigrants can obtain a driver’s license and other benefits most of us take for granted.
The resulting economic change may be a significant contribution to federal and state taxes, Social Security and Medicare. It is yet to be seen how many qualified immigrants will apply for Dream Act status. In addition, it is yet to be seen how the contributions of these workers will balance against their increase in the cost of state and federal public programs.
These young immigrants must apply for and qualify under a rigorous federal standard: came to the U.S. before age 16; lived in the US for at least 5 years prior to the legislative enactment; have a high school diploma or a GED; not more than 30 years old (and certain immigrants up to 35 years old on conditional retroactive benefits); have a clean criminal record.
Immigration law enacted and called the DREAM ACT is called amnesty and condoning illegal entry into the United States by some. Look carefully at the restrictions on those who apply. Make comments and suggestions for revisions if you feel this is needed. It is unfortunate that the gridlock in Congress makes it doubtful that anything on immigration law will happen soon. Yet change will come. Let us all make it an intelligent and thoughtful discussion of immigration. The "Marketplace of Ideas" is the touchstone of our future.
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