One year out, new measure brings old feelings

Phoenix AZ

02 December, 2021

8:47 PM

Description

Voters will determine Nov. 8, 2022, if noncitizen residents can receive in-state tuition after graduating high school or finishing two years of college in the United States by either approving or opposing a new ballot measure introduced in May. State Sen. Paul Boyer (R-20) introduced this year Senate Concurrent Resolution 1044 into the Arizona State Legislature. "The decision really could be the difference between a good life and a bad one for so many people," Jaime Garcia, 47 said. To him, elections represent a force for change, and although November 2022 feels far away, he said it will be here before many learn about why the month and its consequences matter. "And yet most will vote not knowing that," the retired Spanish teacher said. The measure is a familiar one both to Garcia and to Arizona; The man says that he is used to legislation like this deciding the paths of those who look like him- Hispanic. In 2006, the citizens of Arizona voted 70% to oppose on Proposition 300, the measure that next year's decision aims to repeal and replace. After 15 years, State Sen. Paul Boyer (R-20) introduced the new measure to the state senate, where it passed with bipartisan support and moved to the house, where it did the same. Now, it will be up to the people to decide. "It is my hope, my desire, if you will, that this passes," said William Brashears, an Arizona State University Spanish professor. "As an educator, I recognize how important it is that people have access to affordable education." If approved, the measure would see "DREAMers," the name given by the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act to children who came to the United States illegally, be able to receive in-state tuition at Arizona universities and community colleges. "We need more college educated teachers, health care workers, lawyers, engineers and a host of other occupations. The youth this bill seeks to help shouldn't be blamed or judged based on others' actions. They were brought here as minors, as children." State Rep. Michelle Udall (R-25) said. But not everyone is supportive. "I believe this policy that we are embarking on here is misguided, unfortunate, unneeded and is actually detrimental to the welfare of my county. Americans should not have to pay for non-American citizens, illegals, giving them favored status for their trespass and invasion into America." State Rep. John Fillmore (R-16) said. As of 2021, only 17 states have passed legislation allowing noncitizen residents the ability to receive in-state tuition, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Next year's election will also see Arizona voters voting on other propositions, as well as the Secretary of State, Attorney General, senatorial and gubernational elections. "This is a step in the right direction, another step after (Arizona citizens) decided to stop in their tracks," said Garcia. "I just hope they do it right this time. I've always hoped for that." Sources: The measure: https://ballotpedia.org/Arizona_In-State_Tuition_for_Non-Citizen_Residents_Measure_(2022) NCSL: https://www.ncsl.org/research/immigration/tuition-benefits-for-immigrants.aspx Jaime Garcia: (520) 222- 9414 William Brashears: (602) 618-6331 Michelle Udall: (602) 926-4856 [email protected] John Fillmore: (602) 926-3187 [email protected]