Albany, NY – On Wednesday, January 22, 2019, the New York State Legislature passed the New York State DREAM Act, sponsored by Assemblymember Carmen De La Rosa and Senator Luis Sepulveda. After six long years of lingering the Senate, this bill is finally off to the Governor's office for signing.

The New York State DREAM Act, or A00782/S01250, seeks to create a DREAM fund commission and a DREAM fund in order to advance the educational opportunities for undocumented children by providing scholarships to college bound students. The bill will also create easier pathways for undocumented families to obtain college tuition savings assistance and financial aid.  

"I’m proud to support the right of children to pursue higher education, regardless of their immigration status," says Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte. "These DREAMers should be able to do so without the many obstacles laid out for them, such as ineligibility for scholarships, financial assistance, and college tuition savings programs. It is a known fact that Dreamers have been contributing to our economy and society, and that it would only make sense for us to extend opportunities that will better themselves and the world around them."

Indeed, undocumented students have been a boon for the U.S. economy. According to the Center for American Progress, immigrant children protected under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) would contribute an estimated $400 billion to the US gross domestic product over the next decade. If the Federal Dream Act were passed, it would illicit $22.7 billion annually over the next decade.¹ 

With all the good that comes from these bright students, it should be in our best interest to preserve their rights and their future here in America. America allows undocumented immigrants to attend school from Kindergarten through High School, but leaves them hanging thereafter. Approximately 4,500 undocumented students graduate from New York high school each year and only 5-10% of them are able pursue higher education due to financial strain.² 

Assemblymember Bichotte and her colleagues understand that it is an uphill battle for immigrants to strive for greatness while also grappling with disparaging sentiments and policies emanating from the Trump Administration. The NYS Legislature advocates for undocumented children and endeavors to make certain that they are prepared for a rapidly changing, ever-advancing American workplace.

^If you or someone you know is dealing with issues pertaining to immigration or anything else, my office is to be utilized as a resource. Please don't hesitate to call (718) 940-0428. My staff will be diligently answering their phones to help you as much as possible.

Video: Assemblymember Bichotte Speaks on the Jose Peralta Dream ACT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzczylsOB9I

Sources:

1) Center for American Progress - The Economic Benefits of Passing the DREAM Act

2) The Gothamist - What You Need To Know About The NY DREAM Act Before You Vote In November