DOJ Files Lawsuit Against Governor Newsom Over In-State Tuition Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants
The Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Governor Gavin Newsom regarding a California law that grants undocumented immigrants access to in-state tuition benefits. The lawsuit alleges that this law results in higher tuition rates for out-of-state U.S. citizens compared to undocumented residents. The DOJ argues that this unequal treatment violates federal law, which prohibits giving tuition benefits to undocumented individuals that U.S. citizens are not entitled to.
The lawsuit filed in the Eastern District of California is part of a series of legal actions taken by the DOJ against Governor Newsom. Similar lawsuits have been brought in other states, such as Minnesota, where the case was delayed due to a government shutdown. Minnesota's Attorney General Keith Ellison has sought to dismiss the lawsuit, claiming that U.S. citizens have equal access to educational benefits as undocumented students.
Governor Newsom has faced multiple federal lawsuits this week, indicating increased scrutiny from the Trump administration. The DOJ also filed a complaint against California's ballot measure that alters congressional districts in favor of Democrats and another lawsuit over a law that prohibits immigration officials from wearing masks. Newsom's office has been contacted for comment on these legal actions.
This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.