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2013 Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act: The Dream Act.
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2013 Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act: The Dream Act Ruth Kostohris, Kaylee Kruschke, Marissa Jurik, Hairong Lin, EmnetFikru, Steve Owen, Tessa Buschmann, PhouaThao, Samantha Mascari, Kathleen Kittridge, CassyVanDeurzen, Hannah Zuercher
The Federal Dream Act • Provides a pathway for citizenship for illegal immigrants • Under 16 when they entered the country • Earned a high school diploma or GED in US • At least 2 years of college OR 4 years in the US Military • “Have maintained good moral character while in conditional resident status.” • Background check required • Outstanding students • Deported students could apply to reenter the US • Prior to 2012 • Not deported for criminal reasons • Age limit increased to 35 years, as opposed to previous Dream act which provided for only those under the age of 29
Criticism of the Dream Act • Steve Chapman of the Chicago Tribune notes that many Republicans are opposed to the Dream act on the grounds that it will increase state taxes to accommodate the in-state tuition for illegal immigrants. • Seattle Post notes that republicans fear that illegal immigrants will receive preferential treatment for financial aid over United States citizens. • Marco Rubio, Florida senator (Republican) declared that the Dream Act is simply “The wrong way to do the right thing.” (Fox News)
Support of the Dream Act • America’s Voice states that that by these students going to college and then participating in the American economy the “dreamers” would not be a drain, but rather benefit the United States • “Dreamers” would provide a greater pool of enthusiastic military recruits. • It is not right to punish children for the actions of their parents, nor is it right to limit their potential. • “The dream act symbolizes what it means to be an American. It’s about opportunity, it’s about the future.” - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 2010