Statement From Inslee Regarding Potential Repeal of DACA

— from Governor Inslee’s Office —

Gov. Jay Inslee today issued this statement following media reports that the president tomorrow may announce a repeal of the DACA program in six months.

“While we remain relentless in our efforts to keep these young people home, the real solution is for Congress to act immediately to pass the bipartisan DREAM Act. The DREAM Act would provide the lawful reassurance and protections these young people need. The ‘build a wall’ and ‘deport them all’ mentality in the White House is an affront to the principles this nation was founded on and an irresponsible response to our outdated immigration system. Congress must seize this urgent challenge and stand up for Dreamers, now.

“More than 17,000 Dreamers call Washington state home. The cruel action reported to be announced tomorrowby the president threatens the ability of these young men and women — many of whom know of no other place to call home — to pursue the incredible opportunities our nation promised them five years ago.

“Washington state will consider every option possible to challenge the repeal of DACA, including legal action, coordination with other states and any executive action that could help protect Dreamers.”

Additional background: Recent op-ed by Inslee published by CNN.com: American dreams of young people will be cruelly ripped away (8/24/17)