Submission + - 'Microsoft Subsidy' Cuts Tuition for H-1B Families
theodp writes: "If you're a U.S. citizen, but not a permanent resident of Washington State, your kids will pay $24,367-a-year (pdf) if they want to attend the University of Washington. But if you're in the U.S. on a temporary H-1B or L visa, you, your spouse, and your kids will soon be able to pay only $7,692-a-year to attend UW thanks to HB 1487, which has been dubbed the 'Microsoft Subsidy Bill'. Sponsored by former Microsoft exec Ross Hunter, the bill stands to benefit the families of thousands of Microsoft workers. Lydia Tamez — associate general counsel and director of global migration at Microsoft — defended the bill, explaining that it will not only make life easier for H-1B employees who rely on Microsoft for their sole income, but also address the concerns of Microsoft guest workers who want to earn MBAs or second degrees, but balk at having to pay out-of-state tuition rates. Not all are impressed by her argument. The 'emergency' law (deja vu, anyone?), which legislators deemed 'necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions,' takes effect on July 1."