California closer to US Dream Act

United States, 28th July: California seems to be almost closer to passing of the California Dream Act following signing of legislation by California Governor Jerry Brown extending private financial aid to undocumented college students.

Provision of securing private scholarship is a welcome step for undocumented students.

However, the next step is to provide public grants to the undocumented.

Financial aid for undocumented immigrant students in California—California AB 130, the new legislation will enable private financial aid for all undocumented students studying at public colleges of California.

Speaking about the new move, Governor Brown said investing funds for every child born and living in California is crucial.

And since people are the main driving force behind the culture and the economy, hence, the signing of the California Dream Act is, undoubtedly, a vital investment in people, he asserted.

Who are eligible to receive private-funded financial aid under California AB 130?—Passing of the latest legislation will cover all undocumented immigrants for receiving private-funded scholarships provided they having earned their diploma after studying for a minimum of three years at California’s high school.

Undocumented immigrant students, immigrant advocates welcome move—Call it a historic step—Announcement of providing private scholarship funding by Gov. Brown is being applauded as a big step towards opening up of college doors for thousands of undocumented immigrant college students.

Speaking about the legislation, a 19-year-old student from Fullerton community college, Ivan Ceja, says it’s a great step, however, still, something more is being awaited.

Signing of AB 130 is, indeed, a historic step, admit immigrant advocates, especially at a time when several other US states have been busy in passing anti-immigration laws.

The bold step by California Gov. Brown is a strong and a clear message to the US that investment in student community, irrespective of their immigration status, is the most appropriate and practical step, states Angelica Salas of Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, Los Angeles.

All eyes now on AB 131—Passing of California Dream Act AB 130 has, no doubt, laid the ground for passing of yet another legislation, a rather more important companion bill named AB 131.

Approval of this bill would be a dream come true for thousands of undocumented immigrants studying in California colleges and universities. This bill, a part of California Dream Act, if approved, would provide access to public grants and scholarships. As of now, the bill is lying clogged up in Legislature.