You have to admire Obama for doing the right thing and agreeing to support the Dream Act.
The White House said in a statement following the meeting, "The President and the CHC (Congressional Hispanic Caucus) leaders believe that, before adjourning, Congress should approve the DREAM Act. This legislation has traditionally enjoyed support from Democratic and Republican lawmakers and would give young people who were brought as minors to the United States by their parents the opportunity to earn their citizenship by pursuing a college degree or through military service."
Harry Reid has repeatedly promised to bring the bill to the floor in the lame duck session and Nancy Pelosi has repeatedly voiced her support for the Dream Act. If the law passes they will both deserve a lot of credit.
Although there are different SENATE and the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES versions of the bill, basically, the Dream Act would help those that:
Came to the United States before the were 16 years old and have lived for at least several years in the U.S.;
Have graduated from high school or have a GED;
Have good moral character (don't have a serious criminal record).
Once they get their temporary status the would eventually have to enlist in the U.S. military or attend college.
Within about 6 years of approval, if they finish 2 years of college or 2 years of military service, they could apply for a green card.
President Obama promised Representative Gutierrez that he would work on a list of Republicans, together with the Hispanic Caucus and other supporters of the Dream Act.
This if a very good first step toward Comprehensive Immigration reform. Unfortunately, the politics aren't right for comprehensive reform in the Lame duck session.
This is an important test of Obama's ability to get good legislation through in the post election period. If Obama loses the vote, after expending his political capital, the Republicans will claim a weakened president that must bend to their wishes. A victory will give him momentum and will solidify the Hispanic/Latino/Pro-Immigrant base.
SUPPORT THE DREAM ACT! JOIN BARACK OBAMA AND CALL YOUR CONGRESSMAN AND YOUR SENATORS and ask them to strongly support the Dream Act and ask them to ask their fellow legislators to support it.
UPDATE
Dream Act Portal
Dream Act Newsroom
Facebook.com
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