Assembly OKs State Grants For Immigrant Students
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) -- California lawmakers have opened the door to state-funded financial aid for immigrant college students who entered the United States illegally.
The state Assembly on Wednesday approved AB 131, part of the California Dream Act, on a 46-25 party line vote. It now goes to the Senate.
Assemblyman Gil Cedillo, a Los Angeles Democrat, has introduced similar legislation each year since 2005 only to see it vetoed by Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. Gov. Jerry Brown, a Democrat, made a campaign pledge last year to sign it.
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.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
