ABSTRACT
This chapter explores arguments surrounding state-level tuition equity bills. It takes such state-level tuition equity proposals often called DREAM Acts as an informative example of states extending certain benefits or privileges to undocumented residents. The major focus of the federal DREAM Act is also the key difference between the federal legislation and state-level versions; that is, providing a path to citizenship. State-level acts do not have the power to defer deportation or adjust an individual's immigration status. However, what both federal and state-level DREAM Acts do provide is the ability to pay an in-state tuition rate. Tuition equity bills provide an example of an often contentious but increasingly successful policy in which states are extending privileges to undocumented members of their communities. The chapter also focuses on two policy areas: tuition equity and driver authorization cards.
