The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been a focal point of the US immigration policy for years. Here are five key facts to know about DACA and its impact on eligible young adults:
DACA Protects Eligible Young Adults
DACA, created in June 2012 through executive action, is designed to shield eligible young adults who were brought to the US as children from deportation. It also provides them with work authorization for renewable two-year periods. To qualify, individuals must have arrived in the US before turning 16, before June 15, 2007, and be under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012. This policy aims to allow these individuals to contribute to the US economy through employment and education.
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DACA Recipients Remain Ineligible for Federal Programs
Although DACA provides a temporary lifeline to young immigrants, it does not offer a pathway to US citizenship. In addition, DACA recipients are ineligible for many federal programs, including health coverage through Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance marketplaces.
Proposed Rule for Expanded Health Coverage
On April 26, 2023, the Biden Administration released a proposed rule aiming to expand eligibility for health coverage to DACA recipients. Such an expansion could reduce uninsured rates among DACA beneficiaries, making healthcare more accessible and providing financial protection against medical expenses.
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DACA Recipients Come from Diverse Backgrounds
As of December 31, 2022, there are approximately 580,000 active DACA recipients residing across the United States. California hosts the largest share, with 28% of active recipients, followed by Texas (17%), Illinois (5%), New York (4%), and Florida (4%). DACA recipients come from diverse countries of origin, with Mexico (81%), El Salvador (4%), and Guatemala (3%) being the top birthplaces.
Challenges Faced by DACA Recipients
Despite being authorized to work, DACA recipients often work in lower-wage jobs, leading to income disparities. Data reveals that 43% of individuals likely eligible for DACA have incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL), compared to 26% of US-born individuals in the same age group. Additionally, they face high uninsured rates, with 47% lacking health coverage compared to 10% of US-born individuals in their age group.
The future of the DACA program remains uncertain. With the program being called illegal in the latest court rulings, the tension among immigrants seems to rise about their belonging to the only country they call home.
