Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is criticizing majority members of the Senate and Assembly for passing the so-called “Dream Act,” which will reward undocumented immigrants with free college tuition. While doing so, leaders in the Senate also blocked an amendment that would help provide additional financial aid to law-abiding citizens who decide to work, live, and raise their families in New York.

“I support helping hardworking New Yorkers attend college, but this is an issue of fairness,” Senator Gallivan said.  “Too many middle-class families have to take out loans and go deep into debt to meet the rising cost of a college education for their kids.  I simply cannot support spending limited state resources to provide free education for those who came to this country illegally.”

Under this legislation (S.1250), free college tuition would be rewarded to illegal immigrants, totaling $27 million or more annually.  Senator Gallivan voted against the measure, however, the bill was approved by a final vote of 40-20.

Nearly three million New Yorkers are currently facing student debt.  According to the New York State comptroller, the average student loan debt in New York is a whopping $32,200.

Senator Gallivan also made clear that he opposes any tuition increases at SUNY and CUNY institutions, as SUNY and CUNY students in districts throughout the state will be among those most negatively affected by this legislation.