Congresswoman Linda Sánchez Supports the American DREAM
Votes to give immigrants brought here as children a path to legal status
Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Linda Sánchez proudly cast a vote in favor of the DREAM Act. This legislation, which passed with bipartisan support, will strengthen our communities and help grow our economy.
"The DREAM Act is an important piece of the comprehensive immigration reform puzzle," said Rep. Linda Sánchez. "Instead of sending these intelligent, hard-working young people back to a country they barely know, we are giving them an opportunity to contribute here in America by joining the military or furthering their education."
This bi-partisan legislation will give children who grew up in our neighborhoods the opportunity to earn a pathway to legal residency. To be eligible an applicant must prove they:
- Reside in the U.S. and have lived here for at least 5 years prior to the DREAM Act becoming law
- Were brought to the U.S. when they were 15 years old or younger
- Are currently under age 30
- Have graduated from a U.S. high school, obtained a GED, or have been admitted to an institution of higher education
- Are not inadmissible or deportable under certain immigration laws
- Provide biometric information and undergo a background check
- Undergo a medical examination to ensure they do not pose a health risk to the community
- Register for the Selective Service system, if appropriate
- Earned a degree from an institution of higher education; or
- Completed at least two years of post-secondary education in good standing towards a bachelor's degree; or
- Served in the U.S. armed forces for at least two years and, if discharged, received an honorable discharge.