ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A measure allowing some undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition rates in Maryland passed the Maryland Senate on Monday.
The bill passed 27-20 but still must be approved by the House of Delegates before going to Gov. Martin O’Malley, who has said he would sign it.
During debate, Sen. Victor Ramirez, D-Prince George’s, the bill sponsor who immigrated legally as a child from El Salvador, told opponents that voting against the bill would not solve problems relating to people living illegally in the state. He said the legislation was needed to help people who live here reach their potential and contribute as much as possible to the state.
“It’s about education,” said Ramirez. “It’s not about immigration.”
The financial implications for students are significant. In-state tuition is $8,416 annually, and out-of-state students pay $24,831 a year.
Opponents said the legislation raised the issue of who subsidizes the education of undocumented immigrants, not whether they can attend college.
“I think this sends a terrible message to everyone in the state that you can break the law and you can get a benefit,” said Sen. Allan Kittleman, R-Howard.
