Hoyer Statement on Immigration Policy Changes

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement on the immigration policy changes announced today by the Department of Homeland Security:

“Today’s decision to defer deportation action against young people who were brought here by undocumented parents but have been raised here in our country is an important step in the right direction.  This will help ensure that hard-working, eager, and talented individuals who came here not of their own choice, and who are contributing to our economy and our defense, can remain here and continue to be part of building a strong future for America. 
 
“As Majority Leader, I worked very hard to help the House pass the DREAM Act in 2010, and I continue to believe that we need comprehensive immigration reform based on the values that have sustained us as a nation of immigrants.  I applaud President Obama’s Administration for this historic announcement and for taking appropriate action in the face of a do-nothing Republican Congress that continues to avoid making progress on our most serious challenges.  I call on Republicans in Congress to start working with Democrats on this issue so we can achieve the comprehensive immigration reform this country needs.”