Private colleges and universities in Georgia could lose state funding if they declare themselves “sanctuary campuses” under legislation the state House approved Wednesday.

House Bill 37 would punish those schools that do not comply with state and federal immigration law. The bill passed 112-57 and now goes to the Senate.

Emory University previously had flirted with becoming a "sanctuary," to allow some undocumented immigrants to attend the DeKalb County university despite laws against it.

Emory receives tens of millions in state dollars each year for health services and tuition assistance grants.

Students could lose HOPE grants under the bill.

What Is A Sanctuary City?

About the Author

Keep Reading

Sen. Jason Esteves (D-Atlanta) shown in the Senate chambers on day 18 of the Georgia Legislative session on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

Credit: Natrice Miller/AJC

Featured

University of Georgia students are seen entering and leaving the main Library on the Athens campus on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez