Tallahassee, Florida — Florida’s Board of Education approved new rules barring undocumented students from enrolling in the state’s 28 public colleges and adult education programs, including GED preparation.
The rules require Florida College System institutions to verify that students are U.S. citizens or lawfully present in the country before admission. Local reports say the policy is expected to take effect for the 2027-28 school year, following Florida’s 2025 repeal of in-state tuition access for some undocumented students.
Immigration advocates and Democratic officials criticized the decision as harmful to students brought to the United States as children. They also questioned whether an appointed board can impose such a broad admissions restriction without direct legislative approval. The Florida Policy Institute has estimated the change could cost the state college system about $15 million annually in lost tuition and fees.
Supporters argue taxpayer-funded higher education should be limited to citizens and people with legal immigration status. Republican state Sen. Don Gaetz told Florida Phoenix that he would support legislation if needed to put the rule into statute.
The move continues Florida’s broader crackdown on immigration under Gov. Ron DeSantis and is likely to face legal and political challenges.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
