CBS News: DACA Renewal Applications Face Record Delays, Costing Some Their Jobs
CBS News reports that lengthy processing delays for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewals are leaving many recipients without work authorization and facing financial hardship, even though most applications are ultimately approved. The backlog of pending renewals has grown to more than 125,000 cases, while the number of active DACA holders fell 14% between September 2025 and June 2026. USCIS says it now adjudicates 80% of renewals within seven months, despite advising recipients to apply only four to five months before expiration. Many DACA recipients have lost jobs, income, and health insurance while waiting. USCIS attributes longer processing times in part to enhanced security screening and vetting measures, while former officials suggest staff have been reassigned from adjudication to fraud and national security work.