DETROIT-Today Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced she would grant drivers’ licenses to young immigrants under Obama Administration reforms enacted last summer. Johnson has agreed per the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that immigrants covered under the president’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program  will be granted drivers’ licenses in accordance to the federal mandate. The move is being hailed as a major victory for young immigrants.

“This validates our efforts. It is great that we can now make use of the work permits granted under DACA,” said Sergio Martinez, a DREAM youth and AIR volunteer organizer. “Moreover, we students can make use of our hard won educations and begin to fulfill our dreams which include continuing momentum for justice for our families with comprehensive immigration reform.”

Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano welcomed Johnson’s decision, saying the reversal of the directive will greatly impact the region’s economic actively, and helps to reaffirm the American dream for many young people.