S.874 - The Dream Act

S.874 - The Dream Act
Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with their counterparts in the House, are urging Congress to pass the Dream Act (S.874), which would allow immigrant students who grew up in the United States to earn lawful permanent residence and eventually American citizenship.
Those in favor
Those in favor include Sen. Lindsey Graham who said, “These young people have lived in America since they were children and built their lives here. There is support across the country for allowing Dreamers – who have records of achievement – to stay, work, and reach their full potential. We should not squander these young people’s talents. Our legislation would allow these young people – who grew up in the United States – to contribute more fully to this country. They have a powerful story to tell and this may be an area where both parties can come together.”
Those against
Those against argue this measure is not fair to the lawful permanent residents and naturalized citizens who came in to this country the right way. They feel, now that many of them are adults, they should leave the country and re-enter through the legal immigration system. Many also argue by making the Dream Act law it is setting a bad precedent in that parents will intentionally bring their illegal children over the border to ensure their citizenship. Opponents point out that many Americans can’t afford to go to school without taking out costly loans. They feel the resources and services given to the ‘Dreamers’ should be going to help Americans attend college.