Hi friend,
It’s hard to believe, but this year marks my 28th anniversary at NILC.
A central part of my work is supporting state and local advocates in advancing policies that allow people to live full, healthy lives. Building power at the state level is crucial — not only for improving daily lives, but also for driving long-term federal change.
To celebrate effective local organizing, I’m sharing three wins from this year:
- As of January 2024, all low-income immigrants in California are eligible for public health coverage. This monumental policy shift could lower poverty among non-citizens by as much as 2.9%, researchers predict. NILC is proud to have served on the steering committee of this multi-year campaign.
- Vermont became the 25th state to offer in-state tuition to students regardless of their immigration status, and will also offer financial aid to eligible students, increasing their opportunities for success.
- In April, Colorado launched the nation’s first ongoing alternative to unemployment insurance for immigrant workers. NILC worked closely with our state partners to support its successful implementation, which we hope will become a model for other states.
These policy victories are particularly significant because they were achieved in a challenging year, given the upcoming elections and state budget shortfalls. They demonstrate the power of collective action. Although focused on immigrants, these wins will benefit everyone in the state. Communities are better off when their residents are healthy, can support their families, and are able to pursue their education. It’s just common sense.
With about a dozen state legislatures still in session, there’s room for more progress before the year ends. NILC will continue to support the critical state work that expands access to education, improves health coverage, strengthens workers' rights, and builds a future where every person, regardless of their immigration status, can thrive.
We have accomplished so much, but the fight is far from over. Stay tuned for more highlights and opportunities to get involved.
More soon,
Tanya Broder
Senior Counsel, Health & Economic Justice Policy
National Immigration Law Center
