Corzine wants cheaper college tuition for illegals

Gov. Corzine says he supports a controversial proposal that would let New Jersey's illegal immigrants attend state colleges at the typical reduced tuition for residents. "Most of our immigrants aren't

News 12 Staff

Mar 31, 2009, 12:40 AM

Updated 5,686 days ago

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Gov. Corzine says he supports a controversial proposal that would let New Jersey's illegal immigrants attend state colleges at the typical reduced tuition for residents.
"Most of our immigrants aren't [here] because they chose [to be here]," says Corzine. "They're here because their families brought them here and they should not be discriminated against."
Corzine's position on the topic is in line with a report put together by his "blue ribbon immigration panel." The report states its findings show the benefits of a better-educated population outweigh the costs.
In order to get reduced tuition, applicants would have to sign a letter of intent to become legalized. Immigration advocates are thrilled to have the governor's support, but the news isn't sitting well with some New Jersey residents.
"They're not paying taxes at their job, and our taxpayer dollars go to support our state institutions," says Rhonda Silverman, of Metuchen.
For more from Corzine, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.