DREAM Act And Implications

One of the most debated issues, and sadly one of President Obama’s few
failed goals in this legislative term has been the failure to pass the
DREAM Act.  The DREAM (Development, Relief and Education for Alien
Minors) Act aims to build upon existing immigration law and provide a
path for citizenship for alien minors enrolled in schools.

The bill, championed largely by Senate Majority Leader Henry Reid of
Nevada, provides a chance for illegal aliens a path to possible
permanent citizenship.  The individuals could embark on this path by
entering and completing two years at an accredited higher-learning
institution, or by enlisting, serving and ultimately receiving a
honorable discharge from a branch of the United States military.

As part of the plan, potential immigrants must fit the following
criteria: Applicants must have proof of having arrived in the United
States before age 16, have proof of residence in the United States for
at least five consecutive years since their date of arrival,
compliance with Selective Service, be between the ages of 12 and 30 at
the time of bill enactment, have graduated from an American high
school, obtained a GED, or have been admitted to an institution of
higher education and be of “good moral character.

The bill hit a snag when Congressional and Senate Democrats failed to
bring the bill to a vote over Republican obstructionism following the
November mid-term elections.  It seems unlikely that the bill will not
be reintroduced in the immediate future. The DREAM Act is an important
piece of legislature, and works to allow aliens a chance to pursue a
path to citizenship through education and military service.