Remarks Signal Critical Opportunity for Bipartisan Solution
WASHINGTON, D.C. — With only 25 days remaining until DACA’s final sunset, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) spoke of his commitment to a bipartisan solution for Dreamers in a press conference today.
“I know that there is a real commitment to solving the DACA challenge in both political parties. That’s a commitment that I share,” Ryan said. “We will bring a solution to the floor, one that the president will sign. We must pass this budget agreement first though, so that we can get on to that. So please know that we are committed to getting this done.”
While the commitment to a bipartisan solution is a much-needed step forward on an urgent issue, Speaker Ryan’s lack of clarity on the timing and composition of such an agreement leaves vital questions on whether House Leadership will side with hardline, enforcement-heavy proposals or advance a practical solution that balances smart enforcement with a permanent solution for Dreamers.
If Congress fails to pass permanent legislation before March 5, the number of DACA recipients losing their protection — and, with it, their ability to work and contribute — could rise sharply and ultimately drive hundreds of thousands of young people out of their integral roles in American communities and into the shadows.
“Speaker Ryan’s comments are an encouraging sign that leadership is finally ready to close on a deal that’s good for both Dreamers and the American worker,” said Ali Noorani, Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum. “Trump, Ryan and McConnell have an opportunity to make history and resolve a portion of our immigration challenges. Today was an important step forward. Seize the opportunity, Mr. Speaker.”