Minneapolis first U.S. city to support new federal immigration policy
The City of Minneapolis is the first city in the United States to support President Barack Obama’s federal policy that would allow undocumented youth to continue to call America home. The Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously Friday, June 29 to approve adding this support to the City’s federal agenda.
On June 15th, 2012, President Obama announced that the Department of Homeland Security will stop deporting young immigrants who meet certain conditions. In mid-August, it is estimated that anywhere from 5,000 to 27,000 people in Minnesota will be able to submit an application to the U.S. Customs and Immigration Service for “Deferred Action.” Approved applicants will be eligible for a work permit, a social security number, and some protection against being deported. Applications will need to be renewed every two years.
By adding support of this policy to the City’s federal agenda, the City of Minneapolis is recommending that the Department of Homeland Security implement this policy with the broadest, most-inclusive language so that it ensures wide participation by all those who are eligible. If the policy is fully implemented, it would prevent the deportation of many young people who have lived in the United States for years, are productive members of our communities, and call America home.
To be eligible for a deferred action an individual must meet the following criteria:
Came to the United States under the age of sixteen;
Has continuously resided in the United States for a least five years prior to June 15, 2012 memorandum and was present in the United States on this date;
Is currently in school, has graduated from high school, has obtained a general education development certificate, or is an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States;
Has not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, or otherwise poses a threat to national security or public safety; and
Is not above the age of 30.
Published Jun. 29, 2012