New American Economy Endorses the Dream and Promise Act of 2019

NEW YORK – Today, Representative Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA), Representative Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), and Representative Yvette Clarke (D-NY) introduced the Dream and Promise Act of 2019 (H.R. 6), which provides permanent legal protections and a path to citizenship for Dreamers and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. New American Economy issued the following statement in support of this legislation:

“Dreamers, who came to the U.S. as children, and TPS holders, who were given legal status because of safety concerns in their home countries, deserve a way to permanently stay in the United States,” said John Feinblatt, President of New American Economy. “These immigrants contribute as community members, taxpayers, and entrepreneurs. We strongly urge Congress to put aside their differences and stand with the majority of Americans who know their communities are stronger thanks to immigrants.”

New research from New American Economy finds that DACA-eligible immigrants and TPS holders:

• Are productive members of the workforce: In 2017, 93 percent of DACA-eligible immigrants and 94 percent of TPS beneficiaries are employed.
• Pay billions in federal income, state, and local taxes: In 2017, DACA-eligible immigrants paid close to $4.0 billion in taxes, while TPS holders paid more than $1.5 billion.
• Hold significant economic clout: In 2017, DACA-eligible individuals earned enough to have $19.4 billion in spending power, while TPS holders earned enough to have $5.8 billion.
• Are entrepreneurial: In 2017, there were approximately 43,000 DACA-eligible entrepreneurs.