Connecticut House Bill HB05056

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/13
• Refer: 1/9/13

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Undocumented Immigrant Aliens From Qualifying For In-state Tuition.

Impact

The passage of HB 05056 would have significant implications for undocumented immigrants pursuing higher education in the state. By removing access to in-state tuition, the bill is expected to increase the financial burden on these students, making it more challenging for them to afford college education. Advocates for immigrant rights argue that this could deter many from attending college altogether, exacerbating barriers to higher education for a vulnerable population. They assert that access to education plays a crucial role in integrating immigrants into society and contributing to the economy.

Summary

House Bill 05056 addresses the eligibility of undocumented immigrant aliens seeking in-state tuition rates at public higher education institutions in the state. The bill seeks to amend the current legislation, specifically section 10a-29 of the general statutes, by explicitly prohibiting these individuals from qualifying for reduced tuition rates that are typically available to state residents. This change is fundamentally aimed at ensuring that undocumented students are required to pay the full price of tuition, aligning their financial obligations with those of out-of-state students.

Contention

The discussion around HB 05056 reveals notable contention among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents of the bill argue that state resources should be reserved for legal residents, while opponents contend that denying in-state tuition only serves to perpetuate inequality and limit educational opportunities for undocumented youth. Critics often highlight that many undocumented individuals contribute to the state’s economy and should not be excluded from educational benefits. Furthermore, the bill could face legal challenges based on arguments related to discrimination and equal access to education.