The Biden-Harris administration has introduced a controversial new rule that would permit illegal immigrants to access taxpayer-funded college preparatory programs originally designed for low-income American citizens. This proposal from the Department of Education aims to allow those eligible under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to participate in federal TRIO programs. These programs are intended to assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and those with disabilities from middle school through to post-baccalaureate education.
“The proposed changes would expand eligibility to include students without immigration status,” states the Biden-Harris administration’s proposal.
Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN) criticized the proposal, arguing that it would deprive American citizens of much-needed resources. “The Biden-Harris administration’s proposal would take college preparatory aid away from American citizens and give it to illegal aliens,” Banks said. He urged Congress to pass his American Students First Act, which aims to ensure that taxpayer-funded programs are reserved for American citizens.
Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Chairwoman of the House Education and Workforce Committee, also opposed the rule, suggesting it diverts essential resources from American students. “There’s a laundry list of problems facing students and postsecondary education today: Costs are soaring, the FAFSA rollout has been butchered, anti-semitism is running rampant across college campuses, just to name a few,” Foxx stated. “But what is the Biden administration focused on? Siphoning resources away from low-income American citizens by stretching college-prep programs thin to cover illegal immigrants.”
This proposal comes amid a significant surge in illegal immigration under the Biden-Harris administration, with over 10 million illegal crossings since they took office. Public opinion surveys indicate a growing desire among Americans to reduce immigration and increase deportations, highlighting the issue’s importance as the November election approaches.
