Assembly OKs Bill To Give Taxpayer-Funded Financial Aid To Illegal Immigrants
LOS ANGELES (CBS/AP) — A local Democratic lawmaker has won the support of the state Assembly for his long-stalled legislation that would grant state-funded financial aid for immigrant college students who entered the United States illegally.
The Assembly on Wednesday approved AB 131, introduced by Assemblyman Gil Cedillo as part of the California Dream Act, on a 46-25 party line vote.
Cedillo has introduced similar legislation each year since 2005 only to see it vetoed by Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, but last year Gov. Jerry Brown, a Democrat, made a campaign pledge to sign the bill.
The Assembly approved the other half of the package last month, allowing illegal immigrant students to receive private financial aid.
Critics say the bill would encourage more illegal immigration and cut the funding available for citizens.
AB 131 now proceeds to the Democratic-controlled Senate, where it is likely to pass.
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