Monday Matters: Controversy #3

Ban illegal immigrants from state colleges

Jeremy Redmon and Laura Diamond of Atlanta Journal Constitution give insight on the new legislation of Georgia sponsored by Republican lawmakers that would effectively prevent illegal immigrants from attending Georgia colleges. The legislation requires incoming students to provide verifiable identification that will be run through a federal database in order to attend the state colleges or universities. Georgia's University System opposes the legislation as they already address the issue of illegal immigrants, stating that they either turn away academically unqualified students or require illegal students to pay out-of-state tuition to attend. Opponents argue that this legislation does not solve the real issue, the declining standard of education in Georgia, by further limiting educational opportunities for students. In addition, other opponents voice their concern that the tightening identification requirements will slow the issuance of certain licenses and permits that hinders economic development.