California Dream Act, part 2, moves closer to reality

The second half of the California Dream Act, AB 131, which would allow undocumented California college students to apply for tax payer-funded financial aid, scored a huge victory.

The California State Senate approved the bill on Aug. 31.

Gov. Jerry Brown, signed the first half AB 130, on July 25.

This law allows undocumented students who meet eligibility requirements to receive scholarships derived from non-state funds.

AB 131, on the other hand, would allow these students to receive financial aid funded by the state including the Board of Governors waiver, Cal Grants and institutional aid.

Both AB 130 and AB 131 are offshoots of AB 540.

AB 540 students are those who were brought to the United States illegally as children.

Signed in 2001, this law states that undocumented students are exempt from paying nonresident tuition at the California Community Colleges.

To meet eligibility requirements, a student must have attended a California high school for three or more years, graduated from high school and must sign an affidavit stating that he or she will apply for citizenship.

Both sections of the California Dream Act were sponsored by Assemblyman Gil Cedillo, Democrat, 45th district.

He has said that he remains optimistic Gov. Brown will sign the bill.

"Now we have new leadership, we are happy that Gov. Brown has indicated he is dedicated to these young men and women," Cedillo said in a statement.

If AB 131 becomes a law undocumented students may join the pool of students who can apply for up to $15 million in community college waivers.

The bill polarizes those calling for immigration reform.

Many Republicans argue that if undocumented students are allowed to apply for tax payer-funded financial aid, this assistance will encourage others to break the law.

Another concern is cost.

At a time when tuition is rising and public education is being cut, many are wondering how the state can add thousands of students to the financial aid mix.

There are approximately 250 Citrus College students who fall under AB 540, according to Citrus' Admissions and Records department.

Last semester, the HOPE club was formed.  

HOPE stands for Helping Find Opportunity in the Pursuit of Education.

Its primary objective is to create a supportive environment for AB540 students. Jorge Acosta, adviser of the HOPE club believes "it gives students the opportunity to finance their education."

Gov. Brown now has 30 days to sign the bill into law.

He can choose to veto the bill or neglect to sign it, in which case the bill dies.

The law will not be effective until July 2012 should he choose to sign it.