American Students First Act
American Students First Act
Plain Language Summary
# American Students First Act - Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Does:** The American Students First Act would prevent federal funding from going to state colleges and universities that offer discounted in-state tuition rates or state financial aid to undocumented immigrants. Currently, some states allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates (which are lower than out-of-state rates) if they meet certain residency requirements. This bill would penalize schools that offer such benefits by cutting off their federal financial assistance. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily impacts undocumented immigrant students who currently attend or could attend state public colleges and universities, as well as those institutions themselves. It would also indirectly affect U.S.
citizen and lawfully present students at affected schools if those schools lose federal funding. The bill targets state-level policies in places like California, Texas, and other states that have passed laws allowing undocumented students access to in-state tuition benefits. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. As of now, it remains in the early stages of the legislative process.
CRS Official Summary
American Students First ActThis bill bars federal financial assistance from going to state public institutions of higher education if the institution offers certain benefits to non-U.S. nationals (aliens under federal law) who are not lawfully present in the United States. Specifically, these institutions may not offer these individuals (1) tuition rates that are lower than or equal to rates for in-state residents who are U.S. citizens, or (2) state-based financial aid.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.