A group of notable companies including Google, IBM, Ernst & Young, and Verizon are supporting the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. In a recent amicus brief filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, the group emphasizes that if DACA ends, it will hurt the U.S. economy. The brief also notes that it could cost the U.S. economy $460 billion if DACA holders are not given work authorization.

DACA holders fill critical worker shortages, start their own businesses, and are a vital part of the American economy. The companies assert that with low unemployment and labor shortages across several industries, DACA holders are more valued than ever.

According to DHS, as of September 30, 2023, there were approximately 544,000 active DACA recipients. Over 300,000 of them are employed in jobs that need more workers, like in schools and hospitals. Others who started businesses employ around 86,000 people. Further, DACA recipients start businesses at almost twice the rate of Americans.

The DACA program has been the subject of legal battles for a long time. The Biden administration recently filed a challenge to the federal district court in Texas to continue the program. As of now, current DACA holders can renew their status, but no new applicants are being accepted.

The companies assert that ending DACA will hurt the U.S. economy, companies, and workers and strongly voice their support for the DACA program.

As always, we actively monitor ongoing immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration-related issue, contact us. We work with our clients every step of the way.