On Nov. 12, the Catholic Bishops of New Jersey
called for the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly to pass in-state tuition legislation that would allow certain documented and undocumented immigrants, who meet a set of strict criteria, to access in-state tuition rates at New Jersey’s public colleges and universities.
On Thursday, Nov. 14, a representative from the New Jersey Catholic Conference will testify before the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee in favor of S2479, an in-state tuition bill.
In their statement, the Bishops say, “These young students are New Jerseyans. They worship at our parishes, are graduating from our schools, and are members of our youth groups. These students should be given the same opportunity that their classmates and neighbors are being given.”
In their statement, the Bishops reference Scripture, which tells Christians to welcome the stranger, serve the poor, protect human dignity, respect all life, and protect the unity of families. The Bishops claim no political agenda, but speak only as spiritual and moral leaders, as shepherds taking care of their flocks.
The Catholic Bishops of New Jersey acknowledge that in-state tuition legislation is just one step – but an important one – in the right direction of fixing a broken system.
It should be noted that Catholic Bishops throughout the nation continue to encourage elected officials at both the federal and state level to pass legislation that would reform our nation’s immigration system justly and compassionately.
For complete statement from the NJ Catholic Conference, please click here.