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Dream Act of 2023
12/13/2023, 9:59 PM
Summary of Bill S 365
Under the Dream Act of 2023, eligible individuals would be able to apply for conditional permanent resident status, which would eventually lead to citizenship if certain requirements are met. These requirements include completing high school or obtaining a GED, pursuing higher education, serving in the military, or working lawfully for a certain period of time.
The bill also includes provisions to protect Dreamers from deportation and provide them with access to federal student aid and other benefits. Additionally, it seeks to address the backlog of immigration cases and improve the efficiency of the immigration system. Supporters of the Dream Act of 2023 argue that it is a compassionate and practical solution to a complex issue, allowing Dreamers to fully contribute to society and pursue their dreams. Critics, on the other hand, raise concerns about the potential costs and impact on the economy. Overall, the Dream Act of 2023 represents an important step towards addressing the status of undocumented immigrants who were brought to the US as children, and it will likely continue to be a topic of debate and discussion in the coming months.
Congressional Summary of S 365
Dream Act of 2023
This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to cancel removal and grant lawful permanent resident status on a conditional basis to certain non-U.S. nationals (aliens under federal law) who initially entered the United States as minors (younger than 18 years of age).
Specifically, DHS must do so for such an individual who (1) is inadmissible, is deportable, or has temporary protected status; (2) has been continuously physically present in the United States for four years preceding this bill's enactment; (3) is not inadmissible on various grounds such as those related to crime or security; and (4) has fulfilled specified educational requirements.
DHS must also do so for an individual who was granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status unless the individual has engaged in conduct that would make the individual ineligible for DACA.
DHS shall remove the conditional basis of the lawful permanent resident status granted under this bill if the individual meets various requirements, such as (1) maintaining residence in the United States, and (2) acquiring a degree from an institution of higher education or serving in the uniformed services.
DHS may not disclose or use information provided in applications filed under this bill or in DACA requests for immigration enforcement purposes.
The bill also repeals a restriction barring states from providing higher education benefits to undocumented aliens unless those benefits are available to all U.S. citizens.
