Oregon Proponents Try New Message on Immigrant Tuition - Spokane, North Idaho News & Weather KHQ.com

Oregon Proponents Try New Message on Immigrant Tuition

SALEM, Ore. (AP) - Advocates are trying a new pitch in their effort to allow young illegal immigrants to pay in-state college tuition if they were brought to Oregon as children.
    
Proponents brought business leaders to a news conference Monday to tout economic benefits they say would accrue. Several of Oregon's largest business groups say the measure would help ensure an educated workforce.
    
The economic arguments are not new, but proponents are putting a sharper focus on them after failed efforts in years past. The measure seems primed for success this year with support from Gov. John Kitzhaber and legislators from both parties.
    
Critics say the state shouldn't subsidize tuition for people who won't be able to legally work when they're done with school.