TRENTON – Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz today issued the following statement condemning the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit challenging New Jersey laws providing in-state tuition rates and financial assistance for eligible undocumented students, legislation she sponsored.

“These laws exist because every young person who grows up in New Jersey, attends our schools, and dreams of a better future deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education. The law providing in-state tuition to all students earned bipartisan support and was signed by a Republican governor, because good government recognizes that investing in human capital yields far greater returns than punishment.

“Many of these students have never known another home. They have chosen to invest in themselves and in our state, and the federal government's decision to target them is cruel, shortsighted, and wrong. Rather than attacking young people who are contributing members of our communities, Washington should follow New Jersey's lead and focus on real solutions that make higher education more affordable and accessible to everyone who seeks it.

“I sponsored these laws because I believe in the promise of education for all New Jerseyans. I support the AG's commitment to use every tool available to defend them, and I stand firmly with every student who is striving to learn, grow, and better our communities.”