DETROIT – The UAW issued this statement regarding President Obama’s announcement today of a new immigration policy that will allow some undocumented students to avoid deportation and receive work authorization:

“The UAW applauds President Obama’s new ‘deferred action’ executive order announced today granting these young people administrative relief. These students – ages 15 to 30 and some of our nation’s best and brightest who lack immigration status because they were brought into this country by their parents – should not be deported and should be allowed to work in this country.

“For these estimated one million undocumented students who have grown up in the United States, attended our schools and shown a commitment to succeed in higher education, this deferral allows them to excel in college and go on to successful careers.

“It’s just smart policy to protect the interests of our children at risk of deportation who have spent years establishing their homes in America -– the only home they have ever known.

“Further, the UAW remains committed to comprehensive immigration reform and urges passage of the DREAM Act to provide a way for these students to become legal residents.”