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Newhouse Stands Up for Dreamers

September 28, 2021

The Biden Administration is undermining Congress’ efforts to provide certainty

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would preserve and fortify the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy. DHS will open a 60-day public comment period for the public to submit comments relevant to the proposed rule.

"I wholeheartedly believe Congress must deliver certainty for Dreamers in Central Washington and across the country. Unfortunately, just as President Obama did in 2012, the Biden Administration is overstepping its authority," said Rep. Newhouse. "This action is undermining our ongoing efforts in Congress to provide a lasting solution for these young people. It is up to Congress - not the Administration - to enact a solution that strengthens our national security, allows DACA recipients to continue contributing to our communities, and secures our southern border. I continue to work to develop and pass legislation that will do just that, and I urge my colleagues to join me in these efforts. We must provide certainty for America's Dreamers, once and for all."

Background:

  • There are over 17,000 DACA recipients in Washington state, with one-third of them residing in the 4th Congressional District. Rep. Newhouse represents more DACA recipients than any other Republican Member of Congress. The average Dreamer came to this country at the age of 6 and is now 26. They speak English and are as culturally American as any native-born citizen.
  • In March, Rep. Newhouse voted to support H.R. 6, citing the need for a bipartisan solution that provides certainty for DACA recipients as well as enhanced border security. Click here to read his statement.

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