Understanding DACA: History, Latest Developments, and What It Means for Dreamers
What is DACA?
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was created in June 2012 under the Obama administration. It was designed to provide temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for certain undocumented individuals who arrived in the United States as children. These young immigrants, often called “Dreamers,” have lived most of their lives in the U.S. and have grown up in American communities, schools, and workplaces.
DACA has allowed recipients to study, work, and contribute to society without constant fear of deportation. For many, it has provided a pathway to a stable future and access to opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable.
A Brief Legal History of DACA
2012: The Obama administration announces DACA, granting eligible applicants deferred action from deportation and renewable work permits.
2017: The Trump administration announces its intention to end DACA, claiming it was created unlawfully. This sparked numerous lawsuits, and courts temporarily blocked the termination, allowing renewals to continue.
2020: The Supreme Court rules in Department of Homeland Security v. Regents of the University of California that the Trump administration’s attempt to end DACA was unlawful, protecting existing recipients.
January 2025: The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals rules that certain parts of DACA are unlawful. This ruling allows existing DACA recipients to continue renewing their status, but new applicants are affected, leaving a gap for prospective Dreamers.
Immigration officials outline plans to accept new DACA applicants
The Federal Government’s Proposal – September 2025
Earlier this week, the federal government submitted a proposal to U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen in Texas. The goal is to reopen DACA to new applicants nationwide while complying with the Fifth Circuit’s ruling.
Judge Hanen has a history of ruling against DACA expansions, so the outcome is uncertain. Based on past cases, his ruling could take 1–3 months.
Key Points:
Nationwide reopening: If approved, most states could begin accepting new DACA applications.
Texas exception: Due to ongoing court rulings in Texas, new applicants may only receive deferred action—protection from deportation without work authorization or lawful presence.
Ongoing litigation: DACA remains under legal scrutiny, and the program’s long-term future is still uncertain.
Why This Matters
For young immigrants who are eligible, reopening DACA could provide opportunities to study, work legally, and pursue dreams in the U.S. For the broader community, DACA contributes to economic growth, education, and social stability by allowing Dreamers to participate fully in society.
This moment is particularly critical for new applicants who have been waiting for years. Understanding the timeline and legal framework helps individuals prepare and seek guidance.
Practical Advice for DACA Applicants
Stay informed: Follow reliable news sources and official court updates regarding DACA.
Consult an immigration attorney: Changes in the program may affect eligibility, application procedures, or protections.
Prepare documentation: If the program reopens for new applicants, having proof of continuous presence, education, or other required documents ready can speed up the process.
Be patient: Legal processes take time, and Judge Hanen’s ruling could take weeks or months. Staying proactive and informed is key.
Conclusion
DACA has been a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of young immigrants in the U.S., and the program’s future continues to be shaped by legal challenges. The federal government’s recent proposal to reopen DACA for new applicants could be a turning point—but uncertainties remain, especially for Texas residents. Staying informed, prepared, and consulting legal experts is essential for anyone impacted by these developments.
