Actions bring total states targeted over tuition to 17
The U.S. Justice Department filed complaints Monday against New York, Connecticut and Vermont over state laws that allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.
The department said in a release that the “Dream Act” laws “seek to undermine our nation by placing aliens over citizens in clear defiance of Congress’ commands.” Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward said: “Congress long ago made clear that states cannot put illegal aliens over our nation’s own citizens. By granting illegal aliens in-state tuition, New York, Vermont and Connecticut are doing just that.”
The complaints bring to 17 the number of states the department has targeted over similar tuition laws, which it says discriminate against citizens who pay higher out-of-state rates. In some states, undocumented students can also apply for financial aid.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong disputed the federal government’s authority over the state’s colleges, according to WTNH-TV. “Note to Trump — Stay out of Connecticut,” Tong said. “How we run our schools and teach our kids is none of your business, and you have no authority to force the sovereign state of Connecticut to deny our kids a future.”
Tong said he would fight to defend Connecticut students from what he called “a cruel attack.” He said the state provides in-state tuition and financial aid to all eligible students.
The laws differ among the 17 states that have adopted them, with varying requirements and qualifications, according to the Migration Policy Institute. New York’s law, called the Senator José Peralta New York State DREAM Act, allows students to apply once for in-state tuition eligibility and then, if approved, apply for financial aid.