I am a DACA recipient who had been eagerly anticipating becoming a registered nurse in Missouri. Imagine the disappointment of learning, just a month before the end of nursing school, that Missouri does not license DACA recipients as registered nurses. This is a reality not only mine but for many, residing in Missouri, going through the same experience.

Living in a country that offers equal opportunity to its citizens, it is devastating to be unable to contribute to my community due to this licensing policy. Despite obtaining the necessary qualifications, we, DACA recipients, are prevented from applying our skills where they might be most needed. This hurdle only adds to the obstacles that young immigrants already face in their daily lives.

Our nation is facing an acute nursing shortage. According to the American Nurses Association, by 2022, there will be far more registered nurse jobs available than any other profession, with a projected 1.1 million new RN jobs - about 500,000 due to growth and about 600,000 due to retiring nurses. Letting fully-trained nurses, regardless of their immigration status, partake in filling these slots would alleviate some of this pressure.

Moreover, according to a study by Migration Policy Institute, DACA beneficiaries are over-represented in essential frontline occupations, including healthcare. Denying them the opportunity to work serves no constructive purpose.

It's time Missouri reconsiders this policy and lets DACA recipients give back to the community that has become their home. By facilitating the licensing of DACA beneficiaries as registered nurses, not only will the state benefit from a dedicated healthcare workforce, but it will also respect the aspirations and hard work of its residents.

Kindly sign this petition to help us voice the need for this change. Allow qualified DACA recipients to work as registered nurses in Missouri.