Professional licenses approved for young immigrants

A new class of Nebraskans is eligible for professional licensure under a bill passed April 13.

LB947, introduced by Omaha Sen. Heath Mello, allows Nebraska residents who are covered by the federal Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to apply for professional or commercial licenses in order to practice their professions. Eligible residents can apply for credentials under the Uniform Credentialing Act.

Administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the DACA program is designed to protect from deportation individuals who were brought into the country illegally as children. Those who meet DACA guidelines are eligible for a work permit and may request deferred action for two years, subject to renewal.

To qualify for the program residents must have:
• lived in the U.S. continuously since June 15, 2007;
• been no older than 31 as of June 15, 2012;
• entered the country prior to their 16th birthday;
• attended school, earned a diploma or general education certificate or been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces; and
• not been convicted of a felony or significant misdemeanors.

Any professional license granted under the bill will be rescinded if a person’s lawful status is rescinded. LB947 also ensures that recipients are ineligible for public benefits other than a professional license.

The bill passed on a 33-11 vote.