Senators Tavares and Sawyer Introduce Tuition Equity Act

Today, State Senators Charleta B. Tavares (D-Columbus) and Tom Sawyer (D-Akron) introduced the Tuition Equity Act, Senate Bill 357, to make the children of undocumented immigrants eligible for in-state tuition and financial aid at state colleges and universities. The legislation, which is the Ohio version of the DREAM Act, would change state law so young people who live in Ohio and want to further their education have the opportunity to succeed regardless of their citizenship.

“This bill is necessary to offer all students the chance of achieving the American Dream,” said Senator Tavares. “This country was built on the foundation of encouraging individuals to reach their highest potential. We should not penalize young people for striving for success.”

In order to be eligible for the Tuition Equity Act, individuals must meet the following requirements:

•  Graduated from high school or obtained a GED in Ohio.
•  Attended high school in Ohio for three years prior to graduation or lived in Ohio for three years prior to   receiving a GED.
•  Register as an entering student not earlier than the fall of 2012.
•  Provide a state college or university with an affidavit stating he or she will file an application to become a United States citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.

“It is important for us to elevate the skills of everyone who is in this state and country for the good of America,” Senator Sawyer said. “It makes sense to keep talented young people in our state by giving them the opportunity to further their education so they can put their skills to work here in Ohio.”

The Tuition Equity Act is modeled after legislation in other states including Texas and California where similar legislation has been signed into law.