Changes to DACA & DREAM Act Regulations 2023

In 2012, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was created to provide temporary relief from deportation for certain undocumented immigrants who arrived in the United States as children. The program allowed these individuals to obtain work permits and remain in the country without fear of deportation. However, on October 31, 2022, the DACA Rule was rescinded and replaced with a new set of regulations.

Under this new rule, current grants of DACA and advance parole issued under the 2012 DACA memo will remain valid until their expiration date. Additionally, existing DACA approvals remain in place and can be renewed. However, no new applications are being accepted at this time due to court orders.

The Department of Homeland Security has also issued a final rule that will preserve and fortify the DACA program. This rule means there are no changes for current DACA recipients and their ability to renew. New applicants will still not be able to apply under the DACA program due to court orders.

The Dream Act of 2023: A Pathway to Citizenship

In addition to changes made to the DACA program, there have also been updates made regarding the DREAM Act regulations in 2023. The DREAM Act is a proposed legislation that would provide permanent residency status to certain undocumented immigrants who arrived in the United States as children. While it has yet to pass Congress, it has been reintroduced multiple times over the years and continues to gain support from both sides of the aisle.

The most recent version of the DREAM Act was introduced in 2021 by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC). It would provide a pathway for permanent residency status for those who meet certain criteria such as having lived continuously in the U.S. since 2007 or earlier; having graduated from high school or obtained an equivalent degree; or having served honorably in the military for at least two years.

Under the Dream Act, these individuals would be eligible for conditional permanent resident status valid for up to eight years. This status would protect them from deportation and allow them to work legally in the US. After meeting certain requirements, they could then apply for lawful permanent residence and eventually American citizenship.

The Dream Act of 2023 has been widely supported by both Democrats and Republicans, with many citing its potential economic benefits. According to the Center for American Progress, if passed, the bill could add $329 billion to the US economy over 10 years and create 1.4 million new jobs in that same period.

It’s also important to note that this isn’t the first time Congress has attempted to pass legislation like this; similar bills have been proposed since 2001 but have yet to become law. However, with more support than ever before, there is hope that this time will be different and that Dreamers will finally get their chance at achieving their dreams of becoming American citizens.

As we move into 2023, it remains unclear what changes may come about regarding both programs – whether they will be repealed or expanded upon further remains uncertain at this time. In any case, it is important that those affected by these programs stay up-to-date on any developments so they can make informed decisions about their future plans accordingly.