Bill > H1450

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding in-state tuition rates at public higher education institutions by restricting eligibility for non-citizens. Specifically, the bill stipulates that individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents will not be eligible for in-state tuition rates, effectively reversing previous policies that may have allowed such students to receive lower tuition fees. The legislation amends Section 9 of chapter 15A of the General Laws to clarify that a resident of the commonwealth must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, as defined under federal immigration law. The bill also requires public higher education institutions to issue regulations defining residency and prepare uniform proof of residence documentation. An exception is made for the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where students from states in its designated maritime region can still be considered Massachusetts residents for admission and tuition purposes. This change represents a significant shift in how non-citizen students will be treated in terms of tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Massachusetts.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1450