Assemblymember Victor M. Pichardo announced that he helped pass the New York State Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act to allow eligible undocumented students to apply for financial aid when pursuing higher education (A.9605).
“As the son of immigrants, I’ve seen firsthand how tirelessly immigrant families work to achieve the American Dream,” said Pichardo. “The DREAM Act is a commitment to New York students who want nothing more than to learn and thrive in the place they called home.”
Under the DREAM Act, undocumented college-bound students would be able to access state-based financial aid, including the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Eligibility would be based on a number of factors – such as attending a New York high school. The DREAM Act also establishes a scholarship fund with private donations and allows children of undocumented immigrant parents with a valid taxpayer identification number to create a tuition savings account.
Pichardo stressed that these students are attending public schools from pre-K through high school in the state. They should be eligible for in-state tuition to pursue their higher education.
“If a student works hard and earns the grades, financial means or where they were born shouldn’t stand in their way,” said Pichardo. “I strongly encourage my colleagues in the Senate to do the right thing and pass the DREAM Act. It’s up to us to ensure New York State remains a beacon of hope and equality.”
EDITOR'S NOTE:
While this may be good news, this must be passed by the state senate also, and then signed into law by Governor Cuomo.
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