California Community Colleges Access and Continuity for Deported Students Act.

Assembly Member Fong's California Community Colleges Access and Continuity for Deported Students Act creates a pathway for deported community college students to continue their education through online programs while maintaining resident tuition rates. The legislation establishes eligibility for students who departed the United States on or after January 1, 2025, due to immigration enforcement actions, voluntary departure under threat of enforcement, or denial of reentry following brief travel abroad.

Under the measure, qualifying students must have been enrolled in a California community college and paying resident tuition rates at the time of departure. To maintain eligibility, students must provide documentation of their departure circumstances and reenroll in an online education program within three years. The nonresident tuition exemption remains in effect until completion of an associate degree, certificate program, or transfer requirements. The bill also preserves these students' resident status and financial aid eligibility should they later resume in-person education at a California community college.

The measure requires community colleges to verify student eligibility and process tuition exemptions. As a state-mandated local program, any additional administrative costs incurred by community college districts qualify for state reimbursement. The bill's urgency clause provides for immediate implementation upon passage to ensure continuity of education for affected students.