AASCU Statement on the Release of the DACA Rule by the Department of Homeland Security
Contact:
Kellee Edmonds
(202) 478-4662
edmondsk@aascu.org
WASHINGTON, August 25, 2022 – The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is very supportive of today’s action by the Biden administration to strengthen the regulatory underpinnings of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This vital program continues to be the cornerstone of support for more than 825,000 individuals who have received deferred action since the program’s start in 2012.
“Today’s administrative rule builds upon the recognized economic benefit these individuals contribute while also cementing the important role they play in our academic, social, and cultural communities,” said Dr. Mildred García, president of AASCU. “AASCU’s members will continue to be the most accessible and affordable option to all students who wish to pursue a postsecondary degree.”
Regional comprehensive colleges and universities are grateful the Department of Homeland Security heeded AASCU’s recommendation that the final rule language not decouple the initial petition for deferred action from the work authorization request. The lack of federal student aid eligibility severely limits DACA recipients’ and Dreamers’ ability to finance their education. The new rule will ensure they can continue to earn income and pay taxes while also pursuing their American dream.
AASCU continues to advocate in Congress for the approval of the DREAM Act, 20 years since its initial introduction, as well as the extension of federal student financial aid to all DACA recipients and Dreamers.
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The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of nearly 400 public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions Delivering America’s Promise. Visit us at www.aascu.org.
