DREAM ACT for undocumented students scheduled for Senate vote

U.S. Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL), Chuck Hagel (R-NE) and Richard Lugar (R-IN) have offered the DREAM Act as an amendment to H.R. 1585, the Department of Defense (DoD) Authorization bill. The DREAM Act opens a path for students who attend college for two years or serve in the military for two years to obtain their legal immigration status.

The DREAM ACT would provide a 6-year path to legal status starting after high school graduation for undocumented individuals brought to the U.S. as children more than 5 years ago. To qualify for legal status, they would have to demonstrate good moral character and within the 6-year period either graduate from community college, complete two years towards a four-year degree, or serve at least two years in the U.S. military.

Over 65,000 immigrant students who have been raised in the United States and whose families pay taxes need, but do not have, a legal mechanism to remain here. The DREAM Act will enable them to adjust their immigration status and contribute their education to the nation’s benefit.

UPDATE  On Wednesday afternoon, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid withdrew the Department of Defense Authorization bill from the Senate floor because of the Senate’s failure to approve a key amendment regarding the war in Iraq. The Senate therefore did not vote today upon the DREAM Act amendment. The DoD Authorization bill will very likely return to the Senate floor in September. There may be a push again for the DREAM Act’s passage as an amendment to this legislation.

KJ