Trump Phases out DACA: The Facts

Before I comment on the ridiculous statements of Attorney General Jeff Sessions (“the compassionate thing is to end the lawlessness [of DACA]??]) and the cowardice of ending such a benign program that extends relatively little rights to a group of young people who deserve so much more, I want to get the facts out regarding what Trump and Sessions have done. Here they are: 

• All new (first time) DACA applications that have been received by USCIS by 9/5/17 will be decided and granted if the applicant meets the eligibility requirements. 
• Any new (first time) DACA application received AFTER 9/5/17 will be rejected.  
• All applications for extension of DACA status that have already been accepted will be granted a final extension presuming continuing eligibility. 
• Any DACA applicant whose grant expires between September 5, 2017 and March 5, 2018 can file a final extension request and it will be adjudicated as long as it is filed before October 5, 2017.  
• Any DACA extension request filed after October 5, 2017 will be rejected. 
• All current DACA grants remain in effect and status is valid until the listed expiration dates. 
• Travel Permission applications (form I-131 advance parole) for individuals with DACA will no longer be accepted. 
• If you have already been granted travel permission (advance parole), the validity period to use the advance parole document will generally remain in effect (but please do not travel even with advance parole without discussing risks with your attorney!).  
• All pending travel permission applications (form I-131 advance parole) will be closed and the application fee will be refunded to applicants.  

These facts come directly from USCIS’ memorandum, released today, titled: “Memorandum on Rescission of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).”   

Photo Credit: Minister Erik McGregor Flickr via Compfight cc