GOP Senator in Florida Pushes to Repeal College Tuition Subsidies for Undocumented Immigrants

Florida State Senator Randy Fine has proposed legislation to repeal in-state tuition subsidies for undocumented immigrants attending the state's colleges and universities. The measure, filed as Senate Bill 90, targets a 2014 law allowing undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition rates under specific conditions.

Fine argued that subsidies cost taxpayers $45 million in 2021 and claims they are unfair to Florida residents and out-of-state students who pay higher tuition rates, according to a statement reported by WPTV of West Palm Beach. He also added that:

"Students from the other 49 states and Puerto Rico pay full price to attend Florida's top-rated colleges and universities, nearly three times the subsidized Florida resident rates"

Under current regulations, undocumented students are eligible for in-state tuition if they attended a Florida high school for three consecutive years, graduated, and enrolled in a state institution within two years of graduation. Fine emphasizes that his bill would not alter admission policies for state colleges and universities but would eliminate the tuition discount.

"This is a no-brainer way to reduce the size of government and free up resources to help Floridians in need," Fine said. "We must put Floridians first, and I am proud to do my part to rebalance the scales for our citizens."

In his statement, Fine tied the bill to broader immigration issues, aligning with President-elect Donald Trump's position on border security and immigration policy, as reported by Florida Today:

"(Trump) has made clear it is time to close the border and stop giving illegal immigrants rewards for breaking the law. While blue-collar Floridians are struggling to make ends meet, it is not fair to require them to pay $45 million a year to subsidize sweetheart deals for college degrees to those who should not even be here"

Fine's announcement drew mixed reactions. Some students, like those at Palm Beach State College, expressed interest in learning more about the proposal. College officials confirmed that roughly 200 students at their campus could be affected. The college issued a statement highlighting their commitment to ensuring access and success for all students:

"It's too soon to comment on the proposed repeal but our goal is to always ensure access and student success for all of our students at Palm Beach State College"

Fine has also announced his intent to resign from the Senate effective March 31 to pursue a congressional seat in U.S. House District 6. The special election for the district, which includes the Daytona Beach area, will take place on April 1.