Earlier today, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled against the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Since DACA went into effect in 2012, the program has provided critical protections and benefits to certain young immigrants without documentation, including forbearance of removal and work authorization. In response to the ruling, New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP) releases the following statement.
Vineeta Kapahi, Policy Analyst, NJPP:
“Today’s decision is great news not only for Dreamers and their families, but also the entire Garden State. New Jersey is home to approximately 16,000 DACA recipients, who play an integral role in our communities and local economies. The protections in DACA allow these young immigrants to pursue higher education and professional training opportunities, providing them — and the state — with a strong foundation for future success. Each year, DACA recipients in New Jersey contribute $205 million in federal taxes and 105 million in state and local taxes. More importantly, Dreamers make immeasurable contributions to the social fabric of the state; they are our neighbors, family members, friends, classmates, coaches, businesses owners, community leaders, and so much more.
“While today’s Supreme Court decision provides temporary relief to many New Jersey residents, there is much more to be done, both by the federal government and here at home. State lawmakers should not have to wait for the Supreme Court or Congress to act. The Legislature can immediately support immigrant communities by removing immigration-related barriers to leading a healthy life in New Jersey. This can be accomplished by expanding eligibility for professional licensing, fully funding universal representation, and including immigrants in pandemic relief efforts. Promoting the ability of immigrants to live and work in New Jersey without risk of deportation will benefit all residents as we overcome the current crisis together.”
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