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DREAM Act Opponents Collect Signatures to Overturn Law
Maria Luna, 23, a 2010 graduate of California State University, Sacramento, sits in the Assembly gallery wearing her graduation cap and gown to show her support for a measure to allow students who are in the country illegally, to collect privately funded college scholarships, at the Capitol in Sacramento, Calif., Thursday, May 5, 2011. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)
Opponents of the California DREAM Act that was signed into law this month are collecting signatures to overturn the law that goes into effect in 2013, according to the Sacramento Bee.
The law, sponsored by Assemblyman Gil Cedillo D-Los Angeles, allows undocumented immigrants, who already qualify for in-state tuition rates to receive state-funded financial aid, including Cal Grants.
Tim Donnelly, a Republican assemblyman in Twin Peaks (who also founded the California chapter of the Minutemen) is leading a referendum that would keep the law from being implemented. He has until January 6 to collect signatures from 504,760 voters. If Donnelly succeeds, the issue will be put up to state voters next year. The group is relying on volunteers, social media and talk radio will give the group the boost they need to get those signatures.
We're waiting for conservative talk show hosts John & Ken to weigh in on this signature-gathering effort in 5...4...3...2...
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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