The Migration Policy Institute (MPI) estimates that approximately 33,000 undocumented immigrants on Long Island are eligible to apply for work permits under President Barack Obama’s administrative relief program. MPI has created an online data tool allowing users to examine statistical information about the eligible populations.
Michael Fix, president of MPI said, “We are delighted to offer the first online data tool of its type that makes it possible for users to obtain detailed estimates and profiles of the unauthorized population at national, state and local levels. The tool represents an invaluable addition to MPI’s published research and data. Particularly as the status of unauthorized immigrants is debated in Washington and beyond, this sophisticated data tool will help the public and policymakers better understand the population and the impacts of policies that affect it.”
The data tool looks at eligibility for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and for the new Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA). DAPA grants work permits to some parents of U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents.
In Nassau, an estimated 10,000 immigrants are eligible for the new DAPA program, according to MPI. Another 6,000 are eligible for DACA. In Suffolk, 11,000 immigrants are eligible for DAPA and 6,000 for DACA. For all of New York State, an estimated 338,000 people are eligible for work authorization under the president’s programs.
The expanded DACA program is expected to begin accepting applicants next month.
