Delaware lawmakers consider state DREAM Act for immigrant students

State lawmakers are considering passing a state version of the DREAM Act, which would allow undocumented immigrants in-state tuition fees at public colleges and universities.

Much like the federal DREAM Act, which has failed to pass Congress on numerous occasions, Delaware’s version would give young immigrants, who were brought here illegally by their parents, the opportunity to get an education. Many of these students do not have social security numbers or other legal documents, obtained by an immigration attorney, to apply for scholarships and private grants. There is some public funding for these students, but is likely to dry up, denying these students the chance to live up to their true potential.

Many of the people, who would benefit from the DREAM Act, were brought here as children by parent that did not consider the ramifications. Immigration lawyers can make it easier for a person to get a work visa, a green card or naturalization, but many immigrants find this route too time consuming or costly, and instead come to the states illegally, subjecting themselves and their children to the possibility of deportation.

There is a general consensus in the country that the immigration system is need of reform, but each side of the debate is finding it difficult to decide how this should be done. Until the system has changed, undocumented residents should hire an immigration attorney to help them avoid deportation and enjoy the benefits of naturalization.