Nebraska — The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the State of Nebraska and joined state officials in proposing a consent decree that would block laws providing in-state tuition and financial assistance to undocumented students.
The proposed consent decree, which must be approved by a federal court, seeks to permanently enjoin state policies that allow certain non-citizens residing in Nebraska to qualify for reduced tuition rates and financial aid at public colleges and universities.
Federal officials argue the laws violate federal statutes by treating U.S. citizens differently than undocumented individuals in eligibility for education benefits. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska.
Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward said the action addresses what the department views as unequal treatment under the law. Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate added that similar legal challenges in other states have resulted in court rulings blocking comparable policies.
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers said the joint filing reflects coordination with federal authorities to revise state law. U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods described the agreement as part of broader efforts to align state policies with federal law.
The legal action is part of a series of cases brought by the Justice Department challenging state laws related to tuition benefits for undocumented students. Similar cases in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kentucky have resulted in court orders blocking those policies, while additional lawsuits remain pending in several other states.
If approved, the consent decree would require Nebraska to stop enforcing the challenged laws and bring its higher education policies into compliance with federal requirements.
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