Portantino Bill Promotes Equal Higher Education Opportunities for Undocumented Students

For Immediate Release: February 13, 2023

Contact: Lerna Shirinian, (818) 409-0400

Portantino Bill Promotes Equal Higher Education Opportunities for Undocumented Students

Sacramento, California – Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank) introduced Senate Bill 467 today, a measure which is aimed at promoting equal access to higher education for all Californians by breaking down barriers for undocumented students.

“Undocumented students are a crucial part of California’s workforce, but often face challenges when trying to access higher education opportunities and securing jobs” stated Senator Portantino. “SB 467 helps address one of these challenges and ensures immigration status is no longer a legal barrier to achieving educational goals.”

The Legislature has previously approved a number of measures to remove barriers to enrollment, increase financial aid, and make changes to the funding formula to incentivize completion and promote job placement for certificate programs.

SB 467 would prohibit a community college from denying a student access to a career technical education program based on their use of an individual tax identification number in the background check for the associated internship or apprenticeship program.

"The community colleges are a beacon for ALL Californians wishing to pursue their higher education and career advancement goals,” stated Wendy Brill-Wynkoop, President of the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges. “FACCC remains dedicated to supporting the undocumented students within our system and across our state, and we applaud Senator Portantino for his continued partnership in honoring that commitment."

Senator Portantino has long been a champion of efforts supporting undocumented students. He was recently honored with a distinction in Higher Education Legacy by the Campaign for College Opportunity.

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