TRENTON N.J.—New Jersey lawmakers approved a bill Monday that would allow those in the country illegally to qualify for in-state tuition rates at state colleges and universities.
Dozens of students and supporters packed the state Assembly Budget Committee to argue the measure would allow for those here illegally to qualify for an affordable higher education.
If it becomes law, the measure would take effect in the fall semester. It also allows for community colleges to charge those here illegally the in-county rate.
To be eligible, a student must have attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years and have a diploma from a state high school or the equivalent.
Students also must submit an affidavit stating they’ve filed or will file an application to legalize their status as soon as they are eligible.
Three citizens testified against the bill and not all lawmakers agreed it was a good idea, including Assemblyman Jay Webber, a Morris Republican.
Webber said the provisions of the bill penalize those here legally by charging them more. He also cited the risk of legal immigrants losing a chance to attend college because of limited number of admissions coupled with more people applying.
