On January 14, 2025, Senator Randy Fine introduced new legislation, SB 244, titled Postsecondary Education, which builds upon a bill he initially filed in December (SB 90). This legislation seeks to prohibit the admission of undocumented children to Florida universities and state colleges, effectively eliminating access to higher education and vocational training for a significant portion of Florida's population. If passed, these measures would mark a dramatic shift in the state's education policies, with potentially devastating implications for communities, families, and Florida's economy.

The proposed legislation could have far-reaching consequences, particularly for individuals who are already integral to Florida's economy and workforce despite facing challenges related to their immigration status. Together, these bills would penalize undocumented children who have grown up in our communities—children who have attended our public schools, excelled academically and demonstrated their commitment to becoming productive members of society. By denying them access to higher education, these measures would create significant barriers to achieving citizenship, improving their economic circumstances, and fully participating in the communities they call home.

Florida is home to approximately 1.2 million undocumented immigrants. Many of their children attend public schools, where they often excel and contribute positively to the state's education metrics. As education advocate Sue Woltanski from Accountabaloney points out, "For the last decade, undocumented students have qualified for in-state tuition, contributing to those metrics that enhance Florida’s national rankings." These students have played an essential role in helping Florida achieve its status as the #1 state for Higher Education, according to U.S. News & World Report. By barring access to college and vocational education for these students, SB 244 and related legislation risk undermining the very success that Florida proudly touts on a national stage.

Moreover, these bills fail to consider the significant contributions undocumented immigrants and their children make to Florida’s economy. They work in vital industries, pay taxes, and drive local economies. Denying their children access to higher education could diminish their potential to contribute even further, leading to long-term economic repercussions for the state. These policies send a chilling message that Florida may prioritize exclusion over inclusion, rejecting the potential of young people who are striving to better themselves and their communities.

As debates surrounding SB 244 and similar measures unfold, it's critical to consider their broader implications—not just for undocumented families but for the state as a whole. Florida’s future prosperity relies on ensuring that all members of its communities have the opportunity to succeed, contribute, and thrive. Cutting off access to education for a segment of the population that has already proven its value is a step in the wrong direction. Instead of closing doors, Florida should be investing in policies that expand access and opportunity, fostering a stronger and more inclusive future for all its residents.

 

Make Your Voice Heard: Send a Letter to Your State Senator Today!

Florida's future is on the line. Legislation like SB 244 threatens to block access to higher education for thousands of children who have grown up in our communities, attended our schools, and contributed to our state's success. This is the time to stand up for fairness, inclusion, and opportunity.

Here’s how you can help:

Use our letter template below to contact your state senator and urge them to oppose SB 244. If you can, personalize it with your own story or concerns—your voice can make an even bigger impact.

Lissette Fernandez

About

Lissette is a Co-Founder and concerned parent of 2 young children. She decided to fight back against the attacks on education freedom by helping to started Moms for Libros. Her work aims to address these attacks by raising awareness about the issues publi