Patricia Dillon

I was proud to stand with colleagues and “Dreamers” in support of legislation for access to higher education. The bill would help students in the 92nd district and my own neighborhood, among others, who pay tuition and fees at public colleges, but are not eligible for financial aid due to a quirk in our law.

Dozens of students and supporters filled the hearing room at the Capitol to support SB 17, an Act Concerning Afford to Dream.

These families have long fought for a path to citizenship, but were thwarted by politics in Congress. Dreamers register with the federal government, have work permits, and pay Social Security taxes. Financial aid was critical to my own getting an education, and these young people have dreams too.