Campaign Action
Even though some Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients have called the U.S. their home since childhood—“the average age of DREAMers when they first entered the U.S.” is 6, according to one study—and are able to live more stable lives thanks to their work permits and protection from deportation, they still face emotional and financial setbacks that can hinder their growth.
Under DACA, eligible immigrant youth are able to work legally, and apply for things such as driver’s licenses. They already pay local and state taxes through everyday purchases, and payroll taxes through their jobs. They file tax returns every year, while their DACA renewal fees—$495 for a two-year work permit—keep the program largely self-funded.
Yet in some states, DACA recipients are ineligible for things such as in-state tuition rates, even if they’ve called that state home for years. In Arizona, for example, “DACA recipients are ineligible for in-state tuition at public universities in the state,” the Arizona State University’s State Press reports. And because schools like Arizona State are public, “DACA students aren't eligible for scholarships, grants or federal student loans through the University.” The burden can be incredibly stressful for many.
"It was actually a strain on my family last year," said Perla Martinez, a sophomore studying digital culture at ASU. She’s one of an estimated 274 DACA recipients at the school. "My dad didn’t have that much money and neither did my mom,” she continued. “It’s hard to know whether you’re really going to be fine or not." Ensuring DACA recipients can access in-state tuition rates and state financial aid is an important step states can take to ease the lives of immigrant youth.
In January in New York, advocates burst into tears and applause following the Democratic-led state legislature’s passage of a bill allowing undocumented youth access to state financial aid. In Arkansas just this month, the state’s Republican governor signed a bill into law allowing DACA recipients to access in-state tuition rates. "I'll be able to go to school," said student Barbara Barroso. She’s lived there since kindergarten. "For this to pass in Arkansas means a lot, because it's my home.” These are actions other states can take in the ongoing absence of permanent protections from Congress.
But even with two-year renewals available, DACA’s uncertain future under the Trump administration has left beneficiaries in limbo, and others completely shut out. Federal courts only partially reversed the administration’s termination of the program, allowing only current and former recipients to renew their protections. Teens who would have aged into eligibility were not included, and the Supreme Court may be taking up a case on the program in the fall. Eligible youth are being urged to renew their protections ASAP.
As advocacy group leader José Patiño told the State Press, it "makes no financial sense" to block the potential of young people who can help revitalize communities and states. DACA is essential in easing the lives of young immigrants, but permanent protections, such as the Dream and Promise Act, can truly help unlock their full potential. "My life is in Arizona," said Denis Alvarez, a sophomore studying secondary education with a focus in biological sciences . "When I think of teaching, I think of teaching in Arizona. I want to give back to the community that has given me so much."