Underwood-Backed American Dream and Promise Act Passes House

WASHINGTON—Today, the American Dream and Promise Act (H.R. 6), legislation co-sponsored by Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14), has passed the House of Representatives. It would protect Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) holders who have lived much of their lives in the United States and have made this country their home. This bill would provide a path to lawful permanent resident status (and eventual citizenship) for Dreamers who meet certain conditions including either completing higher education, serving in the military or holding a job; and create a path to lawful permanent resident status (and eventual citizenship) for TPS and DED holders. The legislation is supported by more than 400 organizations, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Main Street Alliance, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association, and the National Partnership for Women and Families. In the 14^th District of Illinois, 4,000 people would become eligible for protection under H.R. 6.

"Dreamers own small businesses, teach our students, care for the sick, coach our kids' sports teams, and contribute millions to the economy in our community," said Underwood. "The American Dream and Promise Act offers a pathway to citizenship for certain immigrants who have spent much of their lives in the United States, including Dreamers who grew up in this country and know no other home, and protects the economic and societal contributions they make."