The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated lawsuits against Vermont, Connecticut, and New York. The suits claim these states prioritize tuition benefits for illegal immigrants over American citizens, contravening federal law.
The legal actions are part of broader challenges initiated by the Trump administration against states like Oregon, Washington, New Mexico, and Arizona. These states allegedly provide financial benefits like in-state tuition, state grants, and student loans to illegal immigrants, which the DOJ argues violates federal law.
Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate stated, “Colleges cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens.”
The situation highlights significant disparities in tuition costs. In Washington, for example, residents pay $13,406 in contrast to $44,460 charged to out-of-state students. Illegal immigrants could potentially benefit from a $31,054 discount if they meet certain state requirements.
Arizona State University is also involved, facing criticism for allegedly continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts that may perpetuate such benefits. The lawsuit against Arizona underscores a substantial tuition savings for illegal immigrants, amounting to $10.5 million in the fall of 2025.
Laws in other states and educational institutions add further complexity. In Oregon, illegal immigrants may receive scholarships exclusive to in-state students. A report from June 2024 estimates around 408,000 illegal immigrants are enrolled in higher education, with significant percentages arriving in the U.S. at age 17 or older.
Lawsuits are still pending in multiple states, including California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. These legal proceedings reflect the administration’s commitment to ensuring American students do not receive fewer benefits than illegal aliens.
Fox News Digital sought responses from governors’ offices of the concerned states but awaits further comment.
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