One Democrat called the proposal “devoid of humanity” and “based on xenophobic principles.”
The Minnesota House passed House File 2431, a higher education finance bill, on April 28 with a 120-14 vote, but rejected an amendment to stop taxpayer-funded college benefits for illegal immigrants.
The debate revealed deep divides over the North Star Promise Act, which funds free tuition for eligible Minnesotans, including those without legal status.
Rep. Isaac Schultz, R-Elmdale Township, proposed an amendment to close a loophole in the North Star Promise Act. “This program has allowed for people who are here illegally to gain benefits to go to college for free in Minnesota,” Schultz said.
Citing more than 10 million border encounters since 2020, Schultz projected 3,000-9,400 illegal immigrants could benefit in Minnesota. “Are we really going to prioritize those who came here illegally or are we going to support Minnesota kids?” Schultz asked.
Rep. Jessica Hanson, DFL-Burnsville, opposed the amendment, calling it “devoid of humanity” and “based on xenophobic principles.” Hanson argued it targets students “who are doing what’s expected of them,” blaming congressional Republicans for blocking reforms to streamline legal pathways.
