The first of the California Dream Act bills could become law next year.

by Brian Leubitz

With the Legislature in recess, the days until August 15, when the Legislature comes back and the redistricting commission is due to return its final maps, are focused on looking at the Governor’s signings and vetoes.  And, of course, lots of dog and pony shows for the media, as Legislators attempt to get some attention for their legislation.

One item that is of particular note is the first, perhaps more modest part, of the California Dream Act.  AB 130 wouldn’t cost the state money, but it could enable some “Dreamers” to afford an education:

One of two bills referred to as the California Dream Act was approved today by the state senate and is headed to Gov. Jerry Brown’s office for approval. Known as AB 130, the measure would allow undocumented college students access to privately funded financial aid in the form of scholarships and other assistance as overseen by state colleges and universities. (SCPR)

Currently, immigrants who attended at least three years at California high schools and graduated from a California high school pay in-state tuition.  This legislation would simply make these same students eligible for private aid.  

Brown has previously said he supported the California Dream Act, and one would hope that would mean a quick signing of AB 130.  But one thing that I’ve learned from watching this process for many years is that nothing is certain.  You can contact Governor Brown to let him know you support AB 130 and help speed up the process.