Immigration reform has been on Congress' plate for many years, with firmly held positions on both sides. A compromise has been in the works, balancing illegal immigrants' desire for a path to citizenship, with nativists' demand for tighter border security.
The Dream Act (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors) is currently the focus of the discussion of Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR).
The bill would offer conditional legal immigration status to young people who meet certain conditions. Approximately two million young illegal immigrants would benefit from the arrangement.
Illegal immigrants who:
- Entered the United States as children (before age 16),
- Have lived in America for five consecutive years,
- Do not have a serious criminal record, and
- Who have a high-school degree or GED certificate
could apply for citizenship if they attend college or serve in the military for two or more years.
While opponents insist that any concession to illegal immigrants is bad policy and costly in terms of social services, etc., analysis of the costs indicates the Dream Act would be basically cost neutral. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be able to focus on illegal immigrants with criminal records instead of these children.
Those supporting the measure include Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. He hopes to bring the law up for a vote before February.
Opposition
Republicans had vowed not to consider any bills unless Bush tax cuts for all, including the wealthiest Americans, were continued. This seems to have been now agreed. Another obstacle, however, is the number of very important bills taking up the attention of Congress.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Burbank Immigration Legislative Reform Attorney
Call 818-997-3700 or toll free 888-997-3701, or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation about comprehensive immigration reform. We are available to answer your questions, and we return phone calls as quickly as possible.
We speak Spanish, Sinhala, Tamil, Gujarat, Hindi and Urdu.
Se habla español.
Our office in Van Nuys is open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Immigration Law Offices, LLP
6316 Van Nuys Boulevard
Van Nuys, CA 91401
Telephone: 818-997-3700 | Toll Free: 888-997-3701
Facsimile: 818-997-3730
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