TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) — A significant roadblock may soon dash the hopes of many students dreaming of a college education in Florida. This week, the Florida Board of Education decided to prohibit students who lack legal immigration status from enrolling in the state’s 28 colleges and adult education programs.
Almost every member of the board voted in favor of this significant change, leaving Florida students and immigrant communities rallying in opposition.
“These young individuals are products of Florida’s communities. They’ve attended our K-12 schools, studied alongside their peers, volunteered their time, worked jobs, and challenged themselves with AP courses. We’ve encouraged them all along. Now, we’re saying they’ve reached a barrier they can’t cross,” expressed Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet from the Florida Immigration Coalition.
Supporters of immigrant rights warn that the repercussions extend beyond the students themselves, suggesting the state’s education system could face a $15 million shortfall from lost tuition and fees as a result of the new policy.
This controversial proposal follows closely on the heels of the Florida Board of Governors’ recent initial move to introduce a similar restriction at universities across the state.
Last year the legislature voted to remove in-state tuition for undocumented students, repealing a law that had been in place since 2014.
“Now that we’ve addressed the tuition issue and aren’t giving the tuition breaks to some here illegally, then this is the next step,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.
Supporters say college seats should be reserved for Florida residents and U.S. citizens.
“I would rather have that spot go to a Florida resident,” said DeSantis.
A legislative oversight committee is now stepping in, and has sent a letter to the Department of Education questioning whether education officials have the legal authority to make these changes without action from the legislature.