DOJ challenges Vermont and New York tuition laws for undocumented immigrants
NEW YORK —
The Department of Justice has filed lawsuits against Vermont, New York and Connecticut, claiming their in-state tuition policies for undocumented immigrants are unconstitutional and incentivize illegal immigration.
The DOJ said these laws “unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens” and create incentives for illegal immigration. Similar lawsuits are pending across many other states.
In 2024, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signed the “Education Equity for Immigrant Students” law, which ensures that all Vermont residents, regardless of immigration status, have access to in-state tuition rates and need-based financial aid at public colleges and universities.
In New York, the Dream Act provides students who earned their high school diploma or GED in the state access to financial aid to support their higher education costs.
The lawsuits seek to overturn these policies.