Wisconsin legislators push in-state tuition for tribes

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A group of lawmakers is introducing a bill that would allow American Indians from anywhere in the United States to pay resident tuition at University of Wisconsin System schools.

The bill’s chief sponsors, Democratic state Rep. Nick Milroy, Republican Rep. Jeff Mursau and Democratic Sen. Jeff Smith, say they hope the bill will encourage more American Indians to attend college in Wisconsin, increase campus diversity and serve as a step toward reconciliation after so many tribes lost their land in the 19th century.

The bill’s chances are murky. Aides for Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald didn’t immediately respond to emails inquiring about the measure’s prospects.