The New York Senate recently rejected a bill which would have allowed state tuition assistance to illegal immigrants currently protected under the DREAM Act in the U.S. This decision was a saddening one for immigration advocates that were hoping that the state would support their cause. The 30-29 vote needed 32 votes to pass.

Some immigration advocates argue that the Senate made a mockery out of a very important issue, because the bill was brought to the floor late in the afternoon with no forwarding. Allegedly no Republicans voted for the measure, and all but one Democrat supported it. If passed, the bill would have provided a budget appropriation of $35 million to open up a Tuition Assistance Program for students who are in the country illegally. It would be reserved for students that are attending private or public colleges and are currently protected under the DREAM Act. The bill proposed that the Tuition Assistance Program pay up to $5,000 a year for undergraduates at four-year institutions that are struggling to afford their college education.

Fox News reports that the bill never designated how many individuals would benefit from the program. The state Comptroller reported that there are at least 8,300 students in the CUNY and SUNY systems that could qualify for help under the Tuition Assistance Program if it had been instated. The idea to help DREAM Act college students was proposed three years ago.

Opponents argue that using taxpayer money to fund tuition assistance for people that are illegal may take funds away from the students that are U.S. citizens. New York is one of 16 states that allow illegal immigrant students to pay in-state tuition fees at public colleges, despite the fact that they are not legal residents of the state.

Currently, Texas, New Mexico, Washington, and California all allow students who are in the country illegally to access state financial aid. Other states do not allow this benefit at this present time. If you are an immigrant that is protected under the DREAM Act and you are seeking financial aid with college, then you may want to talk with an immigration attorney.

Constantly changing laws are making it difficult for immigrants to keep up. Use our directory to locate a knowledgeable attorney who will be up to date on the current immigration laws in your state and can help you to seek financial aid if possible. If you are currently under the DREAM Act, then you are highly encouraged to pursue higher education after high school or serve in the U.S. military. A skilled lawyer can help you to explore your options and avoid deportation by staying protected under the Act.