The move follows a similar effort involving Florida\u2019s state university system. The Florida Board of Governors recently took an initial step toward a similar policy for state universities.<\/p>\n
Supporters of the rule argue taxpayer-funded higher education should be reserved for citizens and students who are lawfully present in the country.<\/p>\n
Opponents argue the rule raises constitutional and statutory concerns, especially because similar proposals did not pass during the 2026 legislative session.<\/p>\n
State Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, spoke against the rule during public comment and said the Legislature did not pass a bill authorizing the change.<\/p>\n
A legislative committee has also questioned whether the Department of Education has the authority to make the rule without additional action from lawmakers.<\/p>\n
Earlier this year, Florida lawmakers repealed a 2014 law that allowed some undocumented students who were brought to the United States as children to pay in-state tuition.<\/p>\n
The new state college rule goes further by blocking undocumented students from admission altogether.<\/p>\n
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