State Legislation Supporting Undocumented Students in Puerto Rico

1. What is the current status of legislation on supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico?


The current status of legislation on supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico is unclear. While there are no specific laws or policies that directly address the needs of undocumented students, there have been efforts by the government and non-governmental organizations to provide support and access to education for this population.

In 2001, Executive Order No. 01-077 was issued by then Governor Sila Calderón, which declared public schools in Puerto Rico as “safe zones” where immigration authorities were not allowed to enter without a court order. This measure was intended to protect undocumented students from potential deportation and allow them to attend school without fear.

In 2014, an amendment was made to the Puerto Rican Civil Code that granted undocumented immigrants equal rights to attend public schools and universities, receive first-time birth certificates for their children born on the island, and obtain a driver’s license.

Additionally, there are various non-profit organizations and grassroots initiatives such as Jornadas por la Dignidad y los Derechos de todos los Pueblos (JDD) and Movimiento Amplio de Mujeres en Acción (MAMAC) that advocate for the rights of undocumented communities in Puerto Rico.

However, there is still no comprehensive legislation or policy specifically addressing the needs of undocumented students in terms of financial aid or tuition assistance. Some universities do offer institutional scholarships or grants for undocumented students, but these are not guaranteed.

Moreover, in recent years there has been a shift towards strict immigration enforcement policies by both local and federal authorities in Puerto Rico. This has created a hostile environment for undocumented individuals and their access to education may be hindered as a result.

2. How does Puerto Rico compare to neighboring states in terms of policies and laws for undocumented students?


Puerto Rico, as a territory of the United States, is subject to federal policies and laws for undocumented students. However, due to its unique status and history, Puerto Rico does not have the same state-level policies and laws that govern other neighboring states in terms of undocumented students.

For example, Puerto Rican students are not eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, unlike in some neighboring states with more favorable policies for undocumented students. Additionally, Puerto Rico does not offer any form of financial aid or scholarships specifically for undocumented students.

However, there have been efforts in recent years to address the educational needs of undocumented students in Puerto Rico. In 2016, a law was passed prohibiting discrimination against undocumented students in education. This law also allows the Secretary of Education to establish policies and procedures that ensure access to education for all students regardless of their immigration status.

In comparison to US states with larger immigrant populations, such as Florida or Texas, Puerto Rico may have fewer resources available for undocumented students. However, the specific laws and policies vary greatly between each state and it may be difficult to compare directly without further research into each individual state’s laws and practices.

3. Are there any proposed changes or updates to legislation that would benefit undocumented students in Puerto Rico?

Currently, there are no proposed changes or updates to legislation in Puerto Rico specifically targeting undocumented students. However, the Puerto Rican government has implemented measures to provide some support and resources for undocumented individuals, including students.

One example is the “Fondos Unidos de Puerto Rico para Ayudar a Familias y Jóvenes Inmigrantes” (United Funds of Puerto Rico to Help Immigrant Families and Youth), which was created in collaboration with various non-governmental organizations to provide financial assistance and resources for immigrants, including undocumented youth and families.

Additionally, the current administration has expressed support for providing educational opportunities for all individuals regardless of immigration status. In 2017, Governor Ricardo Rosselló signed an executive order that allows undocumented students who have graduated from a high school in Puerto Rico to attend public universities at in-state tuition rates.

In terms of potential future changes, it is possible that the Puerto Rican government may consider implementing policies or legislation that would provide additional support and resources for undocumented students. However, this would likely depend on political priorities and budget allocations.

4. Have there been any successful initiatives or programs implemented in Puerto Rico to support undocumented students?


Yes, there have been several successful initiatives and programs implemented in Puerto Rico to support undocumented students.

1. Education without Borders: This is a program that provides financial assistance and academic support to undocumented students in Puerto Rico who have graduated from high school or have obtained a GED. The program offers full scholarships to attend participating universities and colleges in Puerto Rico.

2. Alianza Solidaria para la Educación: This organization offers financial assistance, counseling, and mentorship programs for undocumented students in Puerto Rico. It also provides support in navigating the college application process and finding scholarship opportunities.

3. Universidad Ana G. Méndez (UAGM) University System Scholarship: UAGM offers a scholarship specifically for undocumented students known as the “Dreamers” scholarship. This scholarship covers tuition costs for undergraduate studies for up to four years.

4. Access Without Fear Program: This initiative aims to create a safe environment for undocumented students by prohibiting schools, colleges, and universities from asking about immigration status during admission processes or enrollment.

5. College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP): This federally funded program provides support to migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their children who wish to pursue higher education in Puerto Rico.

6. Dream.Action.Hope – CONPRmetidos: This program helps undocumented high school graduates in Puerto Rico secure financial aid through private donations and fundraising efforts.

7. Proyecto Somos Fénix: This organization offers educational scholarships as well as mentoring and tutoring services for undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

8. Financial Aid Portal with Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC): HESC has created an online portal called “Papeles sin Papeles” (Papers Without Papers) which provides information on financial aid opportunities available specifically for undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

These initiatives and programs have provided much-needed support to undocumented students in Puerto Rico, making it possible for them to access higher education opportunities despite their immigration status.

5. What challenges do undocumented students face when attempting to access education in Puerto Rico?


1. Ineligibility for government financial aid: Undocumented students are not eligible for government-funded financial aid, making it difficult for them to afford tuition and other education-related expenses.

2. Limited educational opportunities: Undocumented students may face restrictions on access to certain degree programs, internships, or research projects due to their immigration status.

3. Language barriers: Many undocumented students in Puerto Rico come from Spanish-speaking countries and may struggle with the language barrier in English-only instruction environments.

4. Fear of deportation: Undocumented students may fear deportation if they reveal their status to school officials or apply for certain programs that require a social security number or legal residency.

5. Difficulty obtaining necessary documentation: Undocumented students may have difficulty obtaining and providing necessary documents such as transcripts, diplomas, or identification cards for enrollment.

6. Lack of support systems: Undocumented students often lack the support of family members who may themselves be undocumented and unable to assist with navigating the education system.

7. Discrimination and stigmatization: There is often discrimination against undocumented students, leading to stigmatization and barriers to accessing educational opportunities.

8. Financial hardship: Due to their limited work authorization, many undocumented students face financial challenges including difficulties in finding part-time jobs to support themselves while studying.

9. Social isolation: Undocumented students may feel alienated from their peers due to their immigration status or language barriers, making it difficult for them to engage in extracurricular activities or form social connections.

10. Constant uncertainty: The legal framework surrounding immigration policy can change at any time, causing constant uncertainty for undocumented students about their ability to continue their education.

6. How has recent federal immigration policy affected legislation regarding undocumented students in Puerto Rico?


Recent federal immigration policy has had a significant impact on legislation regarding undocumented students in Puerto Rico. One of the main ways in which it has affected legislation is through the policy known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). This policy, implemented by the Obama administration in 2012, provides temporary protection from deportation and work permits for undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children.

While DACA also extends to Puerto Rico, its implementation on the island has faced challenges due to its unique legal relationship with the US. Initially, many young people in Puerto Rico were not able to apply for DACA because they did not have a Social Security number, which is required for the application. However, a court ruling in 2018 allowed applicants from Puerto Rico to use their Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number.

In addition to DACA, recent federal immigration policies have also created uncertainty and fear among undocumented students in Puerto Rico. In September 2017, the Trump administration announced that it would be ending DACA and gave Congress six months to come up with a legislative solution. This caused panic among many DACA recipients in Puerto Rico who feared deportation and losing their ability to continue their education. However, several states challenged the decision and a nationwide injunction was issued, allowing DACA renewals to continue while court cases are ongoing.

The current political climate surrounding immigration has also influenced local legislation regarding undocumented students in Puerto Rico. In March 2019, a bill was introduced in the House of Representatives that sought to prohibit undocumented students from attending public universities in Puerto Rico. The bill faced widespread criticism and was ultimately withdrawn by its sponsor.

Overall, recent federal immigration policy has created challenges for undocumented students in Puerto Rico regarding their access to education and legal protections. While DACA has provided some relief for these individuals, ongoing changes and uncertainty at the federal level continue to impact legislation at both the local and national level regarding undocumented students.

7. Are there specific resources available for undocumented students attending colleges/universities in Puerto Rico?


Yes, there are specific resources available for undocumented students attending colleges/universities in Puerto Rico. Some of these resources include:

1. Financial Aid: Several colleges and universities in Puerto Rico, including the University of Puerto Rico and the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for undocumented students.

2. Dreamer Center: Many universities in Puerto Rico have established Dreamer Centers to provide support and resources for undocumented students. These centers often offer academic advising, counseling services, and access to legal assistance.

3. Student Organizations: Many universities in Puerto Rico have student-run organizations dedicated to supporting undocumented students. These organizations may provide mentorship programs, social events, and advocacy efforts on behalf of undocumented students.

4. Network of Support: Undocumented students in Puerto Rico can also find support from local community organizations that specialize in providing resources and services for immigrants. These organizations can help connect students with legal aid, housing assistance, and other essential services.

5. State Laws: Some states in Puerto Rico have passed laws extending certain rights and benefits to undocumented individuals, including access to in-state tuition rates at public universities.

6.Establishment of Admission Policies & Tuition Equity for Undocumented Students: Private institutions such as Universidad Ana G Mendez (UAGM) offers admission policies tailored specifically for DREAMers or DACA recipients making it easier to obtain educational facilities

7.Leadership Development Programs-Through networking with other groups such as CLINIC (Catholic Legal Immigration Network), private institutions such as UAGM offers leadership training programs aimed at developing cost-effective strategies to advance the causes related to immigration reform within their communities using different media platforms while serving as a direct interface between grassroot leaders/members/students servant leaders/volunteers community leaders/church coalitions while inviting special leaders/graduates/scholars/fellowships/supporters/donors/professionals/citizens/clergy/leadership forums and events held by different immigration institutes within the country who serves as active or Bolton supporters of United

8.Legal Assistance: Undocumented students in Puerto Rico can access free or low-cost legal assistance through organizations such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the Puerto Rico Legal Services Corporation.

9. Online Resources: There are also several online resources available for undocumented students in Puerto Rico, including scholarship databases, informational websites, and forums for connecting with other students in similar situations.

Overall, there are numerous resources available for undocumented students attending colleges/universities in Puerto Rico. These resources aim to provide support and assistance to help students navigate the challenges they may face while pursuing their education.

8. How does the K-12 education system in Puerto Rico address the needs of undocumented students?


The K-12 education system in Puerto Rico is responsible for providing education to all children within its jurisdiction, regardless of their immigration status. This means that undocumented students have the right to attend public schools and receive a free education, just like any other student.

In Puerto Rico, undocumented students are not required to present proof of legal status when enrolling in school, as this goes against federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on immigration status. They are also entitled to all the benefits and services provided to other students, such as meals, transportation, and special education services.

However, there are some challenges and barriers that undocumented students may face in accessing quality education in Puerto Rico. These include language barriers (many undocumented students may not speak Spanish as their first language), lack of access to social services (such as healthcare), and financial obstacles (undocumented families may face financial struggles due to limited job opportunities).

To address these needs, Puerto Rico has several programs and initiatives specifically aimed at supporting undocumented students. These include language assistance programs for non-native Spanish speakers, outreach efforts to connect families with necessary social services, and scholarship opportunities for high-achieving undocumented students who may struggle with financial barriers. Additionally, schools often work closely with community organizations and immigrant advocacy groups to provide additional support and resources for undocumented students.

Overall, while there are still challenges that need to be addressed, the K-12 education system in Puerto Rico strives to ensure that all students have access to a quality education regardless of their immigration status.

9. Is there a state-level program or scholarship specifically for Dreamers or DACA recipients in Puerto Rico?


There is no state-level program or scholarship specifically for Dreamers or DACA recipients in Puerto Rico. However, there are several national scholarship programs that do not have citizenship or residency requirements, such as the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship and the Gates Millennium Scholars Program. Additionally, many colleges and universities in Puerto Rico may have their own institutional scholarships available to all students regardless of immigration status. It is recommended to research and reach out to individual schools for more information about these opportunities.

10. What actions have educators and advocates taken to push for stronger legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico?


1. Raising awareness and educating the public: Educators and advocates have held workshops, conferences, and information sessions to educate the public about the challenges faced by undocumented students in Puerto Rico and the need for strong legislation to support them.

2. Lobbying government officials: Educators and advocates have met with legislators, government officials, and policymakers to discuss the issue of undocumented students in Puerto Rico and advocate for stronger legislation.

3. Forming advocacy groups: Several organizations such as Mi Familia Vota Puerto Rico, The National Council of La Raza, and The Hispanic Federation have formed advocacy groups to specifically focus on issues affecting undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

4. Collaborating with other organizations: Educators and advocates have collaborated with other organizations such as civil rights groups, immigration organizations, and student associations to work together on advocating for stronger legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

5. Conducting research: Some educators and advocates have conducted research studies on the challenges faced by undocumented students in Puerto Rico and used this data to push for stronger legislation.

6. Engaging in legal actions: In some cases, advocates have engaged in legal action such as filing lawsuits or submitting amicus briefs to support the rights of undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

7. Holding rallies and protests: Educators and advocates have organized rallies, protests, and marches to bring attention to the issue of undocumented students in Puerto Rico and demand action from lawmakers.

8. Working with universities: Some universities in Puerto Rico have taken a stand against discrimination towards undocumented students by providing resources such as financial aid, scholarships, and counseling services. They also provide spaces for student-led organizations that advocate for immigrant rights.

9. Developing resources for educators: Educators working with undocumented students may face unique challenges. Advocates have developed resources such as toolkits, training materials, and guidelines to help educators support their undocumented students.

10 . Building coalitions: Through collaboration with various organizations, educators and advocates have been able to build strong coalitions to amplify their voices and push for stronger legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

11. Are there any limitations or restrictions placed on undocumented students accessing higher education in Puerto Rico?


There are no specific limitations or restrictions placed on undocumented students accessing higher education in Puerto Rico. However, undocumented students may face challenges in terms of financial aid, as many programs require proof of legal residency or citizenship. Additionally, some universities may have their own policies regarding the admission of undocumented students. It is important for undocumented students to reach out to individual universities and research their specific requirements and resources available for undocumented students.

12. Has there been any backlash or opposition towards state legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico?


There has been some backlash and opposition towards state legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico, particularly among conservative and anti-immigrant groups. They argue that providing support to undocumented students would encourage illegal immigration and strain already limited resources. Some also believe that it is not fair to provide benefits to undocumented individuals at the expense of citizens or legal residents. However, there are also many organizations and individuals who support these legislative efforts and believe that all children, regardless of immigration status, deserve access to education and other basic rights. Overall, the level of opposition is not significant enough to prevent the passage of legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

13. What role do local school districts and universities play in implementing state policies for undocumented students?


Local school districts are responsible for implementing state policies for undocumented students at the K-12 level. This includes providing access to education, enrolling and registering students, and ensuring that students are not discriminated against based on their immigration status.

Universities also play a role in implementing state policies for undocumented students, as they are responsible for admitting and enrolling these students at the college level. They may also provide support services, such as counseling and resources for DACA recipients, to help undocumented students succeed in their education.

14. Is there data available on the enrollment, graduation rates, and academic success of undocumented college/university students in Puerto Rico?


As Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, undocumented students in the territory are subject to federal and state laws regarding access to higher education. However, due to the unique political and economic situation of Puerto Rico, there may be variations in data availability on undocumented students compared to states within the mainland US.

Some possible sources for data on enrollment, graduation rates, and academic success of undocumented college/university students in Puerto Rico include:

1. US Department of Education: The Department’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) collects and reports data on various aspects of higher education in the US, including enrollment and graduation rates. While there is no specific category for undocumented students, these statistics can provide some insight into the overall trends and demographics of Puerto Rican students in higher education.

2. Puerto Rico Department of Education: As Puerto Rico has its own government and department of education, they may also collect data specifically on students within the territory. Their website may have information on enrollment and graduation rates at different levels (e.g. high school or college).

3. Colleges/Universities: Individual colleges/universities in Puerto Rico may also track their own enrollment, graduation rates, and academic success data for undocumented students. Check with specific institutions for any available statistics.

4. Research Studies/Reports: There may also be academic research studies or reports that focus on higher education access and success among undocumented students in Puerto Rico. These can often be found through online databases or by searching Google Scholar.

5. Non-Profit Organizations/Migrant Support Groups: Non-profit organizations or migrant support groups working in Puerto Rico may have data or reports related to the experiences of undocumented college/university students in the territory.

Overall, there is limited data available specifically on undocumented college/university students in Puerto Rico compared to other states within the mainland US. However, it is possible to piece together information from various sources to gain some insight into this population’s enrollment and academic success.

15. How does the availability of financial aid, both at the state and federal level, impact access to education for undocumented students in Puerto Rico?


The availability of financial aid at the state and federal level can greatly impact access to education for undocumented students in Puerto Rico. Without access to financial aid, many undocumented students may not have the means to afford the cost of higher education, making it more difficult for them to pursue their academic goals.

At a federal level, undocumented students in Puerto Rico are not eligible for federal student aid programs such as grants, loans, or work-study opportunities. This limits their ability to cover tuition costs, buy textbooks and materials, and cover other necessary expenses related to pursuing an education.

However, Puerto Rico does offer its own financial aid programs that are available to all students regardless of immigration status. These include programs such as the Universal Scholarship Program (PPEU) and Tuition Assistance Grant Program (TAG). Undocumented students may also be eligible for private scholarships and institutional aid from some universities in Puerto Rico.

Additionally, the availability of financial aid can be affected by state policies. For example, some states may have laws that allow undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition rates or provide state-funded financial aid specifically for this population. In Puerto Rico, undocumented students are considered residents for tuition purposes and are therefore eligible for in-state tuition rates at public universities.

In summary, while accessing financial aid can still be challenging for undocumented students in Puerto Rico, there are some options available at both the state and federal level that can make pursuing higher education more feasible for these individuals. However, more comprehensive policies at both levels could further improve educational access for undocumented students in Puerto Rico.

16.What efforts have been made by lawmakers to address issues of discrimination against undocumented students within educational institutions in Puerto Rico?


There have been several efforts made by lawmakers to address issues of discrimination against undocumented students within educational institutions in Puerto Rico. Some of these include:

1. Law 392: This law, known as the “Equal Access to Education Act”, was passed in 1999 and prohibits any discrimination against students based on their immigration status.

2. Law 8: In 2010, Law 8 was enacted to protect the rights of undocumented students to access primary and secondary education without facing any discriminatory barriers.

3. Executive Order OE-2017-019: In 2017, Governor Ricardo Rosselló issued an executive order to protect the rights of undocumented students in public universities and colleges, ensuring their access to higher education without discrimination.

4. Creation of a Special Counsel for Protection Against Discrimination: In 2019, a Special Counsel for Protection Against Discrimination was established under the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. This counsel is responsible for investigating cases of discrimination against vulnerable groups, including undocumented students.

5. Nomination Commission for Undocumented Students: In 2020, a nomination commission was created to help undocumented students apply for scholarships and financial aid programs offered by the Puerto Rican government.

6. Introduction of Bills in Legislature: Several bills have been introduced in the Puerto Rican legislature to further protect the rights of undocumented students, such as Bill SENADO345 that seeks equal treatment for all students regardless of their immigration status.

Overall, Puerto Rico has made significant efforts through legislation and government initiatives to address issues of discrimination against undocumented students within educational institutions. However, there is still room for improvement and advocacy groups continue to push for more inclusive policies and protections for this vulnerable population.

17.How does compliance with federal immigration law impact policies and protections for immigrant and refugee children attending schools in Puerto Rico?


Compliance with federal immigration law may have a significant impact on policies and protections for immigrant and refugee children attending schools in Puerto Rico. This is because federal immigration law can dictate how schools and education systems in Puerto Rico are required to handle issues related to immigration status.

For example, if federal immigration law requires schools to verify the immigration status of students and their families, this could lead to discrimination and barriers for undocumented or immigrant students attending schools in Puerto Rico. It could also affect enrollment rates, as families may fear coming forward to enroll their children due to fears of deportation.

Additionally, compliance with federal immigration law may also impact access to certain educational programs and services for immigrant and refugee children, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes or special education services. This could potentially hinder these children’s ability to receive an equal education like their peers.

On the other hand, if policies are in place that protect the rights of immigrants and refugees attending schools in Puerto Rico, compliance with federal immigration law may not have as significant of an impact. For example, laws that provide protection against discrimination based on immigration status or policies that allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates may mitigate some of the negative effects of federal immigration enforcement.

Ultimately, compliance with federal immigration law in Puerto Rico can have both positive and negative impacts on the education system for immigrant and refugee children. It is important for school officials and policymakers to ensure that policies are in place that prioritize the well-being and education of all students, regardless of their immigration status.

18.Are community colleges/universities required by law to accommodate and support undocumented students in Puerto Rico?


It is not clear if Puerto Rico has specific laws requiring community colleges and universities to accommodate and support undocumented students. However, under federal law, all US public colleges and universities must provide in-state tuition rates to eligible undocumented students through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Additionally, some universities in Puerto Rico have created specific programs and resources for undocumented students, showing support for this population.

19.What outreach and support services are available to help undocumented students in Puerto Rico navigate the college admissions process?


There are several outreach and support services available to help undocumented students in Puerto Rico navigate the college admissions process. These include:

1. College preparatory programs: There are various programs offered by colleges and non-profit organizations aimed at helping students prepare for college. Some examples include the Upward Bound Program, Talent Search, and Educational Opportunity Centers.

2. College counseling centers: Most colleges have dedicated counseling centers that offer guidance and support to students as they navigate the college admissions process. These centers can also provide specialized assistance to undocumented students.

3. Community-based organizations: There are several community-based organizations in Puerto Rico that offer support and resources to undocumented youth, including those interested in pursuing higher education. These organizations may provide workshops, one-on-one support, and other resources to help with the college application process.

4. Immigration advocacy groups: There are also several immigration advocacy groups in Puerto Rico that work specifically with undocumented individuals and families. These groups can provide valuable information on educational opportunities available for undocumented students.

5. Online resources: There are many online resources available specifically for undocumented students, including scholarship databases, application guides, and informational websites.

6. Financial aid advisors: Each college has a financial aid office where students can get assistance with completing financial aid applications and finding scholarships that do not require proof of citizenship or legal residence.

7. Support from school counselors or teachers: School counselors and teachers can also be a valuable resource for undocumented students navigating the college admissions process. They can help with academic planning, recommendation letters, and providing information on resources available for undocumented students.

8. Mentors or peer support networks: Connecting with other undocumented students who have successfully navigated the college admissions process can be helpful for those currently going through it. Look for mentorship programs or join peer support networks where you can connect with others who understand your unique challenges.

9.Tuition assistance programs: Some colleges in Puerto Rico may offer tuition assistance programs specifically for undocumented students. It is worth researching and reaching out to individual colleges to see if they have any such programs available.

Overall, there are various resources and support services available for undocumented students in Puerto Rico. It is important to research and reach out for help when needed to navigate the college admissions process successfully.

20. What is the overall sentiment of residents in Puerto Rico towards state legislation supporting undocumented students?


The overall sentiment of residents in Puerto Rico towards state legislation supporting undocumented students is generally positive. Many residents believe that every student, regardless of their immigration status, should have access to affordable education and opportunities for higher education. There is a sense of solidarity and empathy towards the struggles and challenges faced by undocumented students, as Puerto Rico has a long history of migration and diaspora.

Additionally, many residents understand the contributions that undocumented students make to society and recognize the potential they have to positively impact their communities. They also believe that providing educational opportunities for all individuals benefits the overall economy and social fabric of Puerto Rico.

However, there are also some concerns among residents about the potential strain on resources and funding for public universities if financial aid is provided to undocumented students. Some may also disagree with granting benefits or privileges to individuals who are not citizens or legal residents of Puerto Rico.

Overall, the sentiment towards state legislation supporting undocumented students in Puerto Rico is mostly positive, but there may be differing opinions on specific aspects or implications of such legislation.