Washington, D.C. - Today, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) delivered the following remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 6, the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021: 

"H.R. 6, the 'American Dream and Promise Act of 2021,' is vital legislation that establishes a path to lawful permanent resident, or LPR, status for two critically important populations that are in dire need of protection.

"The Dream Act creates an earned path to LPR status for Dreamers—individuals who entered the United States in their youth and who have lived here for most of their lives.  Dreamers are part of the fabric of our nation, aptly demonstrated by their commitment to bettering our country through the pursuit of education, military service, and employment.

"It is undeniable that Dreamers enrich our nation.  They are our neighbors and co-workers, they are classmates with our children, and they serve in our military with distinction.  They are an essential part of our communities, where they contribute to our thriving economy and make America a stronger, more united, and more diverse nation.  

"Similarly, the Promise Act provides a path to LPR status for individuals who either held, or were eligible for, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) as of January 1, 2017 or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) as of January 20, 2021.  

"TPS is a form of humanitarian relief provided to individuals from countries experiencing dangerous conditions and crises.  DED is like TPS, but it is derived solely from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations.  

"Like Dreamers, TPS and DED recipients are essential to our communities.  Many of them have lived in the United States for decades.  They make up a significant portion of the workforce in key industries, including construction, food service, and home health care.  They contribute to the U.S. economy not only through their work, but also through consumer spending and tax revenue, and they have been particularly essential in serving our country during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I have no doubt that some of my Republican colleagues will stand before us today and use what they claim is a crisis at the border as an excuse not to support this bill.  But let’s get one thing straight—this legislation is not about the border.  This legislation is about finally delivering on our promise to America’s Dreamers and others who are equally deserving of our protection.

"I want to thank my colleagues, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Nydia Velazquez, and Yvette Clarke, for their commitment to this important legislation and to the millions of people this legislation will protect.  

"I hope that all my colleagues will stand up for them when it truly counts and will support H.R. 6 today.