DOJ moves to overturn New Jersey’s in-state tuition for undocumented students

The Department of Justice is suing New Jersey to overturn two laws that extend in-state tuition and state-funded financial aid to undocumented students, arguing they violate federal law by giving benefits not available to U.S. citizens. The laws, initially enacted by former Gov. Chris Christie (2013) and expanded by Gov. Phil Murphy (2018), require certain criteria (NJ high school attendance, diploma, and a legalization affidavit) to qualify. New Jersey officials say the laws are lawful and note similar challenges against other states, while the Trump administration has pressed multiple lawsuits against NJ policies and related immigration actions.