The Washington Post reports that about 50 students rallied outside the Maryland State House this morning, urging the Senate to pass a bill that offers in-state tuition to illegal immigrants.
The legislation, which has the support of Gov. Martin O'Malley (D), was approved by the House of Delegates last month, after an emotional debate on the floor.
Opponents argued that the bill sanctions illegal immigration while proponents said it was discriminatory not to offer the same tuition rates to all high school students.
To qualify for the in-state tuition students must attend high school in Maryland for at least two years, provide proof to the school that they or their parents paid state income tax for a year before the teenager's graduation, and submit an affidavit that they will apply for permanent residency within 30 days of becoming eligible. The rate would only be available to students within three years after graduating.
"Their parents pay taxes, it's only fair that they pay in-state tuition," said Victor R. Ramirez (D-Prince George's), the bill sponsor.
Former Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) vetoed a similar bill in 2003, arguing that the legislation would reward illegal behavior and allow illegal immigrants to take spots away from legal Maryland residents.
According to the article, the students were joined today by several top elected officials, including Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown (D) and Comptroller Peter Franchot (D).
It appears that politicians, particularly Democrats, are ignoring the term, ILLEGAL. Why should there even be a discussion as to whether or not ILLEGAL immigrants should receive in state tuition? If they are illegal, these individuals should not even be in this country. And they have the gall to demand in state tuition? Only in America! Democrats are on a collision course with American citizens, the majority of which want enforcement of laws pertaining to ILLEGAL immigrants. Enforcement certainly does not include giving in state tuition, or anything else for that matter, to people who are in this country illegally.
We realize that ILLEGAL immigrants may have dreams too. However, ne of the great things about the United States is that if you are persistent and work hard enough dreams can become a realities. So my message to ILLEGAL immigrants is pretty clear. Put in the hard work....become a legal U.S. citizen, and then make your demands.
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