WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump Administration is rescinding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Attorney General Jeff Sessions just announced.
According to a Department of Homeland Security memo, the administration won’t consider new applications for legal status dated after today. Anyone with deferred action that is scheduled to expire between now and March 5 can apply for a two-year renewal. That application must be submitted by Oct. 5.
Starting March 6, deferred action status will end as expiration dates arrive for about 800,000 young immigrants who were brought here as children, have been in the country for at least 10 years, registered with the government and are working or going to school.
The following is a statement by Ali Noorani, Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum:
“Our hearts are heavy for the DACA recipients in our lives who are making our country better. To them we say: You are not alone. We stand with you.
“Republicans in Congress now have a huge opportunity. They can get credit for providing a permanent legislative solution for Dreamers. They can draw on the support of local and national evangelical leaders, conservatives in their own party and hundreds of CEOs — as well as 73 percent of Trump voters.
“Or, Republicans in Congress and the administration will share the credit for the anguish that begins now and will only increase with each passing day.
“We must not deport these young immigrants and the American promise they and their families represent. That’s not who we are.
“Our eyes turn toward Congress for leadership from Republicans and Democrats to pass bipartisan legislation that addresses Dreamers in a constructive, compassionate way that serves the interests of American workers and their families.”
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