DREAM Act

The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act, commonly known as the DREAM Act, would create a pathway for certain undocumented young people who arrived in the U.S. as children to obtain legal permanent residency. To qualify, individuals must have arrived in the country at least five years prior to the bill’s enactment, earned a high school diploma or equivalent, and demonstrated "good moral character."

The bill would also repeal a federal provision that currently restricts states from offering in-state tuition rates to undocumented students unless they offer the same rates to all U.S. citizens regardless of residency. For eligible individuals, the legislation provides protection from deportation and grants work authorization while they pursue higher education or complete their residency requirements. If enacted, the practical impact would be to allow a specific group of young residents to transition into legal status and more easily afford and attend college.