Dive Summary:
- The Oregon Legislature on Thursday approved House Bill 2787, which would allow undocumented high school graduates in the state to pay in-state tuition rates, and Gov. John Kitzhaber has committed to signing it.
- In order to receive the in-state tuition rates, undocumented students must have attended school in the U.S. for at least five years, studied at an Oregon high school for at least three years and graduated, and intend to become a U.S. citizen.
- Supporters said the move would contribute to the state's education goals and let talented youth contribute to the state's economy, but opponents argued that tuition equity is unfair to out-of-state students and that businesses wouldn't be able to legally hire the undocumented students once they graduate.
From the article:
SALEM -- It took a decade, but a bill granting in-state tuition rates to undocumented Oregon high school graduates has cleared both chambers of the Legislature.
Senators approved tuition equity 19-11, with three Republicans joining all 16 Democrats in support. It will likely become law as Gov. John Kitzhaber has promised he will sign it. ...