House Bill 1701, known as the Higher Education Dream Act of 2023, seeks to prohibit discrimination against noncitizen students, specifically those classified as Dreamers, in higher education institutions that receive federal funding. The bill mandates that such institutions cannot deny admission to Dreamer students based on their immigration status, thus ensuring equal treatment in the admissions process. Furthermore, the bill prohibits higher education institutions from charging Dreamer students higher tuition rates compared to state residents, aiming for equitable access to educational opportunities.
The amendments proposed in HB1701 would adjust existing laws under the Higher Education Act of 1965, highlighting protections against discrimination in admissions and financial assistance for Dreamer students. These amendments specifically outline that institutions cannot differentiate treatment based on immigration status or penalize students who qualify for admission. Additional provisions ensure that any violation of these rules would lead to remedies outlined under the General Education Provisions Act, aiming to protect the rights of these students.
A notable aspect of HB1701 is its emphasis on confidentiality, prohibiting any governmental or educational personnel from using information provided by Dreamer students for enforcement actions such as arrests or deportation. This strengthens the trust between immigrants and educational institutions, encouraging more Dreamers to apply for higher education.
The bill has sparked significant political discussion, with supporters advocating for inclusive educational policies that reflect the contributions of Dreamers to society, while opponents may argue about potential impacts on state funding and resources. The broad aim of the bill is to align with principles of equality and non-discrimination, raising the question of how such policies will be implemented across different states given the varied stances on immigration nationally.