OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

American Dream and Promise Act of 2021

Floor Speech

Date: March 18, 2021
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Immigration

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin. Madam Speaker, today, I am pleased to rise in support of the American Dream and Promise Act (H.R. 6) to provide permanent protections for Dreamers and those currently protected by Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) programs.

Over the past few years, the lives of these Dreamers, who have largely known no other home than the United States, have been filled with even greater uncertainly and court challenges. This bill aims to permanently change that and give security and a pathway to citizenship for our Dreamers.

The vast majority of DACA-eligible students over the age of 18 received a high school education here. Our nation has made an investment in their future that not only transformed their lives, but also has resulted in widespread economic and other benefits for our country and communities. A few years ago, it was estimated that if Wisconsin's DACA workers were deported, it would cost the state more than $400 million annually.

Despite this uncertainty and outright hateful opposition from the previous administration, these young men and women remain resolute and many have served on the frontlines--as health care professionals and other essential workers--during this deadly pandemic.

We successfully defended against ill-advised efforts to end DACA. Now it is time to take the next step. We need to ensure that DREAMers can continue enriching our country.

Likewise, TPS holders have also seen their lives thrown into turmoil during an already turbulent time, with their fate depending on a series of court decisions. Like Dreamers, TPS holders are active members of their communities, many have lived here for years, and are critical contributors to our economy.

It's always the right time to do the right thing. Now is the right time to provide permanent protections and a pathway to citizenship for those who have contributed so much to our country. I am pleased to support this bill.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT


Source
arrow_upward