Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) voted in support of H.R. 6, the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021.  This legislation secures protections and establishes a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers (individuals who came to the United States when they were young) and for certain individuals who were eligible for or held Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) status.  Congresswoman Fletcher is a co-sponsor of H.R. 6, which passed the House today with bipartisan support, 228-197.

“Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the country.  Dreamers and TPS holders are an essential part in the fabric of our community in Houston and across the country,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “The Dream and Promise Act ends the fear and uncertainty for people who know no other country as home.  I am glad this legislation passed the House of Representatives today, and I hope the Senate will quickly take up this important bill.” 

The American Dream and Promise Act provides conditional Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status for up to 10 years to Dreamers who meet certain basic educational benchmarks.  It provides full LPR status to those who reach more advanced professional or career milestones.  The bill bars eligibility if an applicant presents a national security risk, has a felony conviction of any kind, or certain misdemeanor convictions. 

The bill also creates a path to LPR status for individuals who had or were eligible for TPS on January 1, 2017, had Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) on January 20, 2021, if they have been in the United States for at least 3 years and have not committed any acts that would disqualify them for relief under those programs.

More information is available here.