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Larson Celebrates New Day for DREAMERS

August 15, 2012

Hartford, CT – Today Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) joined millions across the country in celebrating the first day DREAM Act eligible youths can begin to realize their dream and start legally contributing to the future of our nation.

"Those who were brought to America through no fault of their own and who've consistently done everything right should be given an opportunity to succeed here in the United States. That's why I supported the DREAM Act in the House, and why I commend President Obama for doing the right thing while Congress continues to debate," said Larson. "I applaud President Obama, Secretary Napolitano, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus for their hard work in making deferred action a reality, and I look forward to continuing our work towards comprehensive immigration reform."

As ordered by President Obama, today the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) began a new process that allows those who entered the United States as children and who meet the criteria laid out in the DREAM Act to request a renewable two-year deferral of deportation and permission to legally work in the U.S.

To be eligible, individuals must have been brought to the United States as a child and meet several other criteria, including:
  • Under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;
  • Came to the U.S. before the age of 16;
  • Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007;
  • Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a GED certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States; and
  • Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

Those interested in more information - or in requesting deferred action, should visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov or call 1-800-375-5283.

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Issues:Immigration