July 28, 2017

Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released the following statement on the American Hope Act of 2017, legislation she is co-sponsoring to provide a pathway for DACA recipients and DREAMers to earn Conditional Permanent Resident status (CPR).

“This legislation will help end the Republican crusade to destroy the lives of immigrants while providing much needed peace of mind for DACA recipients and DREAMers. In my district, immigrants are more than just students, teachers, doctors, and lawyers. They are friends, family, and a valuable part of the community. They deserve these protections and a government that respects their contributions to our nation. This bill is a strong step forward as I continue to fight for comprehensive immigration reform.”

BACKGROUND

The American Hope Act would:

• Allow DACA beneficiaries and other DREAMers to apply for conditional permanent resident status (“CPR status”).
• Allow those granted CPR status to obtain full lawful permanent resident (LPR) status (i.e., a “green card”) after 3 years if they stay out of legal trouble.  Time spent as a recipient of DACA would count toward the required 3 years with CPR status.
• Provide a 5-year path to U.S. citizenship.  Time spent in CPR status would count toward the general 5-year period needed for permanent residents to become eligible for U.S. citizenship. 
• Allow minors to apply for CPR status through a legal guardian or counsel.
• Improve college affordability for undocumented youth and other immigrants by repealing rules that limit their access to in-state tuition and college loans.
• Treat all DREAMers brought to the United States as young children the same, regardless of educational level, military service, or work history.