Submitted by the office of Rick Larsen

Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, issued a statement today after voting for legislation that creates a pathway to citizenship for immigrants who have spent much of their lives in the United States, including those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure.

“I voted today to stand with Dreamers and immigrants who have come to the United States to escape armed conflict, natural disasters and other extraordinary circumstances,” said Larsen. “I have consistently fought for a permanent solution for people with DACA, TPS and DED so they can continue contributing to the U.S. economy.”

According to the Center for American Progress, there are 52,200 immigrants in Washington state who are eligible for protection under H.R. 6, the Dream and Promise Act. There are 5,100 eligible people in the Second District.

“These members of our communities have passed background checks and live and work legally in the United States. Dreamers alone contribute more than $1 billion annually to Washington state’s economy. The Senate must quickly act to pass this comprehensive immigration legislation to provide a pathway to citizenship for the 5,100 immigrants in Washington’s 2nd District,” said Larsen.

Larsen discussed the importance of permanent protections for people with DACA, TPS and DED in town halls and meetings across the 2nd district, including with students at Everett Community College and Edmonds Community College.