Message from Chancellor Lambert on Proposition 308

Pima Community College joins educators across the state in applauding Arizona voters for passing Proposition 308, which provides in-state tuition to eligible Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students and others who do not have lawful immigration status. Proposition 308 was signed into law this week by Gov. Doug Ducey.

Proposition 308 ensures that any qualifying Arizonan, who attended high school or a homeschool equivalent in Arizona for two years and graduated or received a GED, is eligible for in-state tuition at its public colleges and universities.

Pima Community College and the Governing Board have been steadfast in their support of education access for DACA students and others who do not have lawful immigration status in Pima County and throughout the state. The College recognizes the economic and social contributions of all in building strong, vibrant communities.

Each year, thousands of undocumented students graduate from Arizona high schools. However, their aspirations to further their education often are dashed by the inability to afford out-of-state tuition rates. Proposition 308 makes higher education more attainable for eligible DACA and undocumented students entering college for the first time or returning to college to learn new skills and re-enter the workforce, helping to bolster Arizona’s post-COVID economy.

Passage of Proposition 308 is a positive development for our DACA students and others who do not have lawful immigration status, as well as their families, friends, and classmates. By granting in-state tuition to these students, we are supporting our core values of diversity, equity and inclusion in a tangible way that will benefit all Arizonans.

The College is currently researching answers to frequently asked questions as well as putting together a comprehensive outreach plan to make sure community members know about this important change and how eligible DACA students and others who do not have lawful immigration status can now more affordably access PCC’s exceptional programs and services.

Lee D. Lambert
Chancellor