WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) re-introduced the bipartisan Dream Act. This legislation would allow hardworking young immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as minors to earn legal status and eventual citizenship if they meet certain educational or military requirements, successfully pass a background check, and remain in good legal standing. FWD.us President Todd Schulte issued the following statement:

“We applaud Senators Graham and Durbin for re-introducing bipartisan legislation to allow hardworking Dreamers to continue living and working in the United States. The re-introduction of the Dream Act is an important moment in the ongoing fight for permanent protections for vulnerable immigrant communities, like Dreamers, TPS holders, and DED Recipients.

“We are also encouraged by the introduction of the SECURE Act by Senator Van Hollen, which would create an earned pathway to citizenship for TPS holders and DED holders who have contributed to their local communities and built families here over many decades. Without a legislative solution, many will soon be faced with the impossible choice of uprooting the lives they have built here, or risk staying in the U.S. without protected status and the ability to work legally.

“The introduction of this legislation reflects the continued momentum toward passing a permanent legislative solution to protect millions of people whose lives have been thrown into chaos by the Trump Administration. At the end of the day, there is overwhelming bipartisan support for protecting immigrant communities. Every member of Congress who stands with them should act quickly to co-sponsor critical legislation that protects these vulnerable populations from deportation to countries most have not been to in decades.”