What is the purpose of the DREAM Act?

The DREAM Act aims to grant legal status to certain undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children, often referred to as "Dreamers." This legislation targets individuals who meet specific criteria, including having resided in the U.S. for a significant period, pursuing education or serving in the military, and having no serious criminal record. The primary objective is to provide these young people with a pathway to citizenship, acknowledging that many of them grew up in the U.S. and consider it home, despite their undocumented status. By emphasizing support for these individuals, the DREAM Act seeks to address their unique circumstances and integrate them into society, rather than penalizing them for situations largely beyond their control.