The Dream Act (H.R. 2820) would grant conditional status to the young immigrants known as dreamers, who then could apply to become permanent residents and subsequently U.S. citizens.
Under the bill, the applicant would have to:
- Have been continuously physically present in the U.S. for at least four years before the bill’s enactment;
- Have arrived in the U.S. before turning 18; and
- Have met educational or military service requirements. Committing certain crimes would disqualify a potential applicant.
Outlook: Despite pressure from the Department of Justice, the U.S. Supreme Court has not yet made a decision whether to take up DACA. The legislation itself faces dismal chances in the Republican-controlled Senate, where nominations and appropriations remain the priority.
