DACA Program: Hope and Hurdles for Immigrants

The federal government is preparing to reopen the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to new applicants. This initiative, integral to many immigrants' lives, allows individuals without legal immigration status to live and work in the U.S. Texas remains a unique exception in these plans.

U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen, presiding over the Texas lawsuit, will review proposals from both the federal government and immigrant advocates. Stateside, Texas stands alone in its refusal to grant work permits to residents despite their eligibility elsewhere.

While immigrant advocates await an official decision, they urge potential applicants to prepare their documentation in anticipation of new opportunities to enroll in DACA. Still, fundamental challenges persist, including the threat of deportation for vulnerable communities, as discussions continue in Houston.

(With inputs from agencies.)