Matsui Statement on Obama Administration's Immigration Policy Announcement

Press Release

Today, the Obama Administration announced that they would grant relief to undocumented youth who came to the United States under the age of 16 and are currently in school, have graduated from high school or obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from our nation's Armed Forces; and have not been convicted of a felony offense, multiple misdemeanors, or a significant misdemeanor offense. This announcement allows eligible youth, who have grown up in the United States, deferred action in current deportation proceedings.

In December of 2010, the Congresswoman supported the passage of the DREAM Act in the House of Representatives, which would create a pathway to earned citizenship for individuals who came to the United States as children and are working towards becoming contributing members of our society, either by attending college or joining the Armed Forces. That bill passed the House, but has been blocked by Senate Republicans.

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) released the following statement:

"As a supporter of the DREAM Act, I am pleased that the President is taking a strong stand toward reforming our immigration policy. It is a sensible policy that is long overdue. Specifically, it is targeted toward young people who were brought to the United States as young children and have grown up to know this country as home. They are law abiding citizens, and this will give them an opportunity to continue contributing to our economy. As the President said, it is the right thing to do."

Source