Wednesday, June 01, 2011

Lawmakers Approve Private Fund for Undocumented Immigrants


Lawmakers Approve Private Fund for Undocumented Immigrants: The children of immigrants, both legal and undocumented, would be able to obtain private college scholarships and enroll in state savings programs under legislation approved Monday. A 61-53 vote in the Illinois House sent the measure to Gov. Pat Quinn's desk because it already passed the state Senate. Quinn said in a statement that he looked forward to signing it.

Supporters praised the legislation as a much-needed way to offer financial help to undocumented immigrants who graduate from Illinois high schools and want to continue their studies in college but can't afford it.

The Illinois Dream Act would create a panel to raise private money for college scholarships and let the children of immigrants join programs that help them invest money and save for college.