Gwen Moore: “Today, I am pleased to rise in support of the American Dream and Promise Act (H.R. 6) to provide permanent protections…”

“Today, I am pleased to rise in support of the American Dream and Promise Act (H.R. 6) to provide permanent protections for Dreamers and those currently protected by Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) programs. Over the past few years, the lives of these Dreamers, who have largely known no other home than the United States, have been filled with even greater uncertainly and court challenges. This bill aims to permanently change that and give security and a pathway to citizenship for our Dreamers. The vast majority of DACA-eligible students over the age of 18 received a high school education here. Our nation has made an investment in their future that not only transformed their lives, but also has resulted in widespread economic and other benefits for our country and communities. A few years ago, it was estimated that if Wisconsin's DACA workers were deported, it would cost the state more than $400 million annually. Despite this uncertainty and outright hateful opposition from the previous administration, these young men and women remain resolute and many have served on the frontlines--as health care professionals and other essential workers--during this deadly pandemic. We successfully defended against ill-advised efforts to end DACA. Now it is time to take the next step. We need to ensure that DREAMers can continue enriching our country.…”