Immigration lawyers are exerting pressure on lawmakers in the country to pass laws that allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition.

A persevering debate was heard, with many advocates getting emotional and choking back tears, as they described why the immigrants should be offered a cheaper resident rate at state educational institutions.

 “I think it’s unconscionable that we would prevent these students from bettering themselves, from shaping their futures,” said an advocate.

In 2012 a former governor had signed an executive order in 2012 that allowed undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition rates as long as they had work permits.

It was argued by many young and undocumented immigrants who had lived in the United States all their lives that they grew up there and should, therefore, be allowed to go in for a decent college education that was affordable. A student stated, “I am not an international student. I’ve been here since I was two and neither should I be treated like one. Do not play politics with my life or their lives.”

At present, in-state tuition or some type of financial aid are offered by 18 states in the country  for undocumented students, including: Connecticut, Florida and California.