Kentuckiana Times

Congresswoman Erin Houchin and Senator Jim Banks have introduced the Putting American Students First Act. This legislation aims to prevent illegal immigrants from accessing taxpayer-funded college preparatory programs known as TRIO, which are intended for low-income Americans.

TRIO programs offer federally funded outreach and support services to help low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities succeed in higher education. These services include academic tutoring, financial aid guidance, college preparation, and mentoring to assist participants in enrolling in and completing postsecondary education.

In 2022 and 2023, the Biden administration issued waivers for California and Oregon. These waivers allowed the states to bypass student eligibility requirements for TRIO programs, permitting illegal immigrants to access these federally funded services.

Rep. Erin Houchin stated: “TRIO programs are designed to help American students access higher education and build a better future. It’s common sense to make sure those benefits go to citizens and legal residents, not individuals here illegally. The Putting American Students First Act protects taxpayer dollars and ensures our resources are focused on the students they were meant to serve.”

Senator Jim Banks added: “Taxpayers shouldn’t be footing the bill for illegal immigrants’ college prep when many of our own citizens struggle to afford the same opportunities.”