On Tuesday, the Biden administration plans to announce an executive action to protect undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens that would protect about 500,000 immigrants from deportation, according to four sources familiar with the matter.
“This is the biggest thing since DACA,” said one of the sources, an immigration advocate, adding that it was a smart political move by the Biden administration.
The four sources, which include advocates and Capitol Hill staff, said lawmakers were briefed and at least some were invited to the White House for the announcement.
NBC News reported Saturday that executive action protecting spouses would likely be announced soon.
The program, known as “parole,” would also make it easier for some undocumented immigrants to obtain a green card and a path to U.S. citizenship.
Sources also state that undocumented spouses would be allowed to obtain work permits on a case-by-case basis. Two of the sources said undocumented spouses will have to live in the U.S. and have been married for at least 10 years before they are eligible to apply for work authorization.
Three of the sources said President Joe Biden will also announce new action regarding DACA recipients who have earned higher education degrees and are seeking employment in the same field.
The planned actions come after immigration advocates and Democratic lawmakers urged the administration to prioritize long-term undocumented immigrants and also as President Joe Biden tries to court Latino voters in crucial battleground states such as Nevada and Arizona.
The expectation is that the measures will be challenged in court.
This story originally appeared on NBCNews.com read the full story
