CIRCUIT COURT DECISION SHOWS NEED FOR ACTION ON DREAMER LEGISLATION

(Washington, D.C.) – Under a decision handed down yesterday by the D.C. Circuit Court, the government would be required to offer renewals to current beneficiaries and accept new applicants under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The decision will not take effect for 90 days, during which time the Department of Justice has been given the opportunity to provide further clarification for its decision to cancel the program.

President of The LIBRE Initiative Daniel Garza released the following statement:

“This decision adds to the uncertainty around the status of the Dreamers, and shows how important it is that Congress act. While many will welcome this relief, it is but another move of the goal posts. With no permanent relief for Dreamers, their lives in America remain stifled by an uncertain status. Until Members of Congress work together to provide permanent relief for the Dreamers this uncertainty will continue. Dreamers who know no other home than America have no way to plan for the future – and that makes things harder for their families, communities, and others who rely on their contributions. Lawmakers must stop playing politics and act now. It is time for lawmakers to come together on bipartisan legislation to offer the certainty of permanent protection for Dreamers, and enhanced border security for the nation.”

Freedom Partners Executive Vice President Nathan Nascimento issued the following statement:

“This court ruling is just the latest turbulent chapter in a dramatic roller coaster ride for Dreamers and their communities. These people know this country as their only home and have the capability to make important and lasting contributions to it. But unfortunately, the only constant in their lives right now is uncertainty as the goal posts are continually changed.

“As business leaders we know the incredible potential that these Dreamers have. But we also know that too many are held back from taking their next steps, whether applying for jobs, starting businesses, or securing their education, all because our Congress has failed to do its job and pass a solution to provide certainty.

“Congress and the Trump administration must come together now to enact a permanent solution for Dreamers and end the legal limbo. The outlines of a bipartisan deal – certainty for Dreamers and border security for everyone – are there if Republicans and Democrats can just reach out and take it. Washington needs to act now.”

For interviews with a representative from The LIBRE Initiative, please contact Brian Faughnan, 202-805-1581 or Wadi Gaitan, 202-853-4463

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