“It’s a good day for DACA recipients” says local immigration attorney

SALINAS, Calif. (KION)

The US Supreme Court has ruled against President Donald Trump's efforts to end legal protections for young undocumented immigrants.

Salinas Immigration Attorney Magnolia Zagarra says the fight is not over and thinks students should act now and begin to gather information needed to apply for the DACA program.

"The fear is that this administration will attempt to terminate DACA again," says Zarraga.

Zarraga says she is happy with the Supreme Court's decision but fears that because the program was pulled in the past, future Dreamer generations could face this challenge again.

"We need to demand change from our representatives."

Right now, she is urging students to begin preparing necessary documents to apply or reapply for benefits as soon as possible.

One local student says the DACA program opened many personal and academic opportunities for her.

Her DACA benefits were just days away from expiring and she says this decision came at a good time.

"I'm feeling very emotional, very happy," says Dreamer Kathy Hernandez of Salinas.

"I had my time in the morning to just cry it out, the fear of what am i going to do after I graduate? Am I going to find job? Just thinking my life is over."

Hernandez agrees with Zarraga and says Dreamers should take action sooner rather than later.

"Take advantage of the time being, the opportunities, the doors that are open, the blessings, invest your time in getting yourself educated," says Hernandez.

Zarraga says ending the DACA program could also have a negative impact on the economy.

Experts say Dreamers play a huge role in the economy and estimate about $215 billion dollars could be lost in tax revenue nation wide.

They also estimate a loss of $1.5 billion dollars a year in the local economy if the program was to end.