Senator Fred Akshar Kicks off Series of 2019 Community Voice Survey Questions with Poll on NYS DREAM Act

Senator Fred Akshar released the first in a series of new online surveys this week in an effort to listen to constituents of the 52nd Senate District on the many issues set to come before the New York State Senate this year.

Throughout the 2019-2020 Legislative Session, Akshar will regularly post new Community Voice Survey questions on Akshar.NYSenate.Gov and publish the results of previously asked questions.

“While I always vote my conscience on controversial issues, it's so important that I do my best to listen to the thoughts and opinions of the people of my district before casting my vote, as they help inform my decisions,” said Senator Fred Akshar. “In my humble opinion, it's the only way to properly represent the people of my district.”

The first question for 2019 is on the New York State DREAM Act (S.1250), which would allow children of undocumented immigrants to apply for state-funded, free college tuition assistance programs for New York State colleges or universities. The DREAM Act would also create a private scholarship fund specifically for undocumented students. The estimated cost to the state would be $27 million dollars.

Currently, undocumented immigrants and their children do not have access to state tuition assistance because United States citizenship is required.
 

“I'm personally opposed to this legislation because I believe it sends the wrong message to the hardworking tax-paying middle class families of United States citizens who are struggling to afford college tuition for their own children and to our young people trying to succeed despite being burdened with crippling student loan debt,” Akshar said. “But I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't allow the people of the 52nd Senate District to weigh in on this legislation and share the results. It's about being open and accountable to the people I represent.”

Constituents are urged to visit Akshar.NYSenate.Gov and let Sen. Akshar know how they feel about the proposal.

Direct link to survey: https://www.nysenate.gov/questionnaires/fred-akshar/community-voice-survey-nys-dream-act 

Full text of proposed legislation: https://legislation.nysenate.gov/pdf/bills/2019/S1250