Deferred action allows individuals with compelling humanitarian need—including children with rare, life-threatening conditions to remain in the country.

These children are in the U.S. to receive medical care that is unavailable in their home countries, and some participate in clinical trials that support the development of new medical treatments. 

• On Sept. 6, 2019, the AMA sent a letter urging the DHS / USCIS to reverse its Aug. 7, 2019 policy change that revoked its acceptance and adjudication of non-military deferred action requests at field offices.

• On Sept. 11, 2019, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform held a hearing titled, “The Administration’s Apparent Revocation of Medical Deferred Action for Critically Ill Children.” The AMA submitted a copy of our Sept. 6 letter to the Committee. On Sept. 19, due to overwhelming public pressure, the Administration reversed its policy.

Learn about the AMA's advocacy efforts related to:

• Health and safety conditions at the southern border
• Extension of family detention
• The public charge and the presidential proclamation
• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
• Visa and green card challenges