What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The federal government is preparing to resume accepting new applications for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which allows certain individuals without legal immigration status to live and work in the United States. This development follows a legal proposal presented by government lawyers and immigrant advocates to a federal judge. The DACA program, established during the Obama administration, provides two-year renewable permits to individuals brought to the U.S. as children, offering protection from deportation but not legal status. The proposal, however, includes a significant caveat for Texas, where recipients will not receive work permits due to a lawsuit filed by the state in 2018. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is set to process new and renewal applications nationwide, except for the work permit restriction in Texas.
Why It's Important?
The potential resumption of DACA applications is significant for the hundreds of thousands of individuals who could benefit from the program. It represents a critical opportunity for those who have been in limbo since the program's suspension four years ago. The decision could impact over 1.1 million eligible individuals across the country, according to estimates. However, the restriction in Texas highlights ongoing legal challenges and the complex landscape of immigration policy in the U.S. The outcome of this legal process could set a precedent for future immigration policies and affect the lives of many who rely on DACA for stability and work authorization.
What's Next?
The federal judge overseeing the case, Andrew S. Hanen, will decide on the proposals submitted by the Department of Justice and DACA recipients' attorneys. The decision will determine the implementation of the program and any potential modifications. Immigrant advocates are urging eligible individuals to prepare for the possibility of applying by gathering necessary documentation. The legal proceedings will continue with further responses due in October, and the outcome will be closely watched by stakeholders, including immigrant communities and advocacy groups.
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