Mass. Lawmakers Consider In-State Tuition for Immigrant Students

Lawmakers in Massachusetts are reconsidering a bill that would allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition prices at public universities and colleges.

The bill was originally shot down three years ago, but has been brought back to the table.  Advocates of the bill are now asking Governor Deval Patrick and his administration for their support.

Opponents have not hesitated to express their concerns.

"It doesn't make economic sense," said Steve Kropper, co-director of the Massachusetts Coalition for Immigration Reform. "If they can't get a job when they're done with college, then it doesn't make sense for the state to invest in them."

Despite opposition, advocates of the legislation have garnered the support of union members, business leaders, and academics--something they did not have three years ago.  

The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation estimates that 400 to 600 students might enter public schools if the bill is passed, resulting in approximately $2.5 million of extra revenue a year.

There are currently 10 states that have a similar law on their books: California, Texas, Utah, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington, Wisconsin, New Mexico, and New York. There are four states that specifically ban in-state tuition rates for undocumented students, including Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and South Carolina. 

The state's Higher Education Committee is planning to hold hearings later this month.

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