Congressman says processing slowdowns are putting work permits, health coverage and legal protections at risk for thousands of recipients

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Gabe Vasquez is demanding federal action over mounting delays in Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals renewal processing, warning that thousands of New Mexicans could lose work authorization and legal protections despite filing paperwork on time.

In a letter sent Wednesday to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow, Vasquez said DACA renewal wait times have increased nearly 400% since 2025, creating uncertainty for recipients across New Mexico.

“New Mexico is home to more than 4,000 DACA recipients who have built their lives here, followed the rules, and know no other home,” Vasquez said in a statement. “These New Mexicans are playing by the rules and have done everything the right way, but because USCIS is failing to process renewals on time, they could lose their work authorization and face deportation. That is unacceptable.”

The congressman said his office has received a growing number of requests for help from DACA recipients whose renewals remain pending months after submission.

According to the release, more than 40 recipients have contacted Vasquez’s office this year after filing within USCIS’ recommended 120- to 150-day renewal window, paying required fees and submitting all necessary documentation.

Despite meeting those requirements, some applicants now face possible lapses in:

• work authorization
• deportation protections
• and health insurance coverage.

The DACA program, established in 2012, provides temporary deportation protections and work permits for immigrants brought to the United States as children. Recipients must renew their status every two years and continue meeting eligibility requirements.

Vasquez’s office said New Mexico’s more than 4,000 DACA recipients contribute over $47 million annually in state and local taxes. The release also states that roughly 2,400 children in New Mexico have at least one parent who is a DACA recipient.

In his letter, Vasquez urged USCIS to immediately address the delays, writing that DACA recipients “have done their part and USCIS should do the same.”

The letter also ties into Vasquez’s broader immigration platform, including support for the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act, which would create a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients.