On the recordDecember 8, 2011
it has been 10 years since I introduced the DREAM Act, legislation that will allow a select group of immigrant students with great potential to contribute to America. The DREAM Act would give these students a chance to become legal in America. They came to the United States as children. They have to be long-term residents of our country, have good moral character, graduate from high school, and complete 2 years of college or military service in good standing. Those are the basic standards we apply. I think if we enacted the DREAM Act, as I have tried to for many years, it would make America a stronger country, giving these talented young immigrants a chance to serve in our military and make us a stronger nation. Tens of thousands of highly qualified, well-educated young people would enlist in the Armed Forces if the DREAM Act becomes law. We have the support of the Department of Defense and the President. They understand that these young people could make us a stronger and safer nation by serving in our military. And they are willing. Many of them are willing to risk their lives for this country. Studies have also found that these DREAM Act participants could literally build our economy in years to come with their talent. Remember, these students we are talking about were brought to America as children and as infants. They grew up here believing they were Americans.…





