East Central Reporter

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed a law that expands financial aid eligibility to include residents regardless of their immigration status. The new measure allows students who are not eligible for federal financial aid, such as those who have not obtained lawful permanent residence or certain transgender students disqualified from selective service registration, to receive state financial aid and benefits.

The legislation is intended to create what supporters describe as “equitable eligibility for financial aid and benefits” for all Illinois students. The bill specifies that a student who is an Illinois resident and not otherwise eligible for federal financial aid shall be eligible for state assistance.

State Representative Chris Miller, a Republican elected in 2023 to represent the 101st House District, criticized the move. In a statement, Miller said, “this move is top of the list for why Pritzker must be put out of office.” He added, “While you’re figuring out how to pay $500 electric bills, he quickly signed HB 460 into law giving illegals free college!” Miller further stated, “since Pritzker took office, Illinois citizens have been left behind while illegals get all the handouts they need to feel right at home in Illinois. The governor has betrayed every Illinois citizen with his policies that roll out the red carpet for illegal immigrants.”

More information about the legislation can be found at https://washingtonstand.com/article/absolutely-shameful-illinois-gov-signs-law-extending-financial-aid-to-illegal-immigrants.