In a development that could bring hope to thousands of young immigrants, the U.S. federal government is expected to reopen the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to new applicants for the first time in four years.
DACA, launched during the Obama administration, was created to protect undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. While it doesn’t grant legal permanent residency or citizenship, it does offer renewable two-year protection from deportation and permits recipients to work legally.
A Light at the End of a Long Tunnel
After years of legal battles, both government attorneys and immigrant advocates have submitted plans to a federal judge that could restart the acceptance of new DACA applications. If approved, this will give thousands of eligible individuals a new lease on life — the opportunity to work, to live without fear, and to plan for their futures with more certainty.
However, there’s a caveat: Texas, where the ongoing lawsuit against DACA is being heard, may be exempt from issuing work permits under the program. While residents in Texas can still apply for or renew DACA, their ability to obtain work authorization would be restricted.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) laid out the new proposal before U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen in Houston, noting that while DACA could resume nationwide, the work permit carveout for Texas would remain due to legal complications tied to a lawsuit filed in 2018.
Still, the proposal also includes a wind-down period — essentially a grace period — to allow existing DACA recipients in Texas to renew their work permits one more time.
Still Waiting, But Hope Is Rising
Nothing is finalized yet. Judge Hanen has additional filings scheduled in October before a final decision is expected. But immigrant rights advocates are urging potential applicants to start preparing now.
Michelle Celleri, Legal Rights Director for Alliance San Diego, emphasized readiness:
“While we are still waiting for an official decision, we believe our communities and families should be prepared and begin gathering the required documents.”
Juliana Macedo do Nascimento of United We Dream echoed cautious optimism, pointing out that the government’s proposal leaves the door open for future adjustments:
“These proposals do not limit DHS from undertaking any future lawful changes to DACA.”
The Bigger Picture
According to the Migration Policy Institute, over 533,000 people are currently enrolled in DACA, and an additional 1.1 million may be eligible nationwide.
For many, this moment is not just about legal paperwork — it’s about dreams deferred for too long. The young people affected by DACA are teachers, students, caregivers, entrepreneurs, and essential workers. They are deeply embedded in American communities and contribute every day to the fabric of the nation.
Reopening DACA could be the first step toward a broader conversation about immigration reform that honors both human dignity and national interests.
