The U.S. Department of Homeland Security today began accepting applications for deferred action from undocumented young people who were brought to the United States through no fault of their own as children. Deferred action offers a chance for undocumented young people, who meet several key criteria, to apply for legal work in the United States and avoid deportation.

Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today launched a webpage to answer questions that have arisen around this important initiative. The webpage will have more information about the eligibility requirements and the process by which DREAMers can apply for deferred action.

“Beginning today, hard-working kids who know no other home than this country and who qualify for deferred action will be given relief from deportation and the opportunity to apply for employment for a two year period,” Bennet said.  “As superintendent of Denver Public Schools, I met DREAMers who just want the opportunity to make a better life for themselves. But they realized that the opportunities that are available to my children are not available to them, through no fault of their own. This new policy will benefit our state and our country.”

Those who demonstrate that they meet the criteria will be eligible on a case-by-case basis to receive deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal, and will be eligible to apply for work authorization. Last year, Bennet and 21 of his colleagues sent a letter to President Obama urging deferred action for DREAMers.

For more information on the new deferred action policy, please visit Bennet’s website at https://www.bennet.senate.gov/dreamers.