Virginia's outgoing Republican officials petitioned a federal court to block the Virginia Dream Act, asking the judiciary to scrap in‑state tuition for undocumented students and aligning with the Trump administration's position. The move was announced by state officials during the lame‑duck period and quickly prompted incoming Democrats and advocacy groups to vow legal and legislative challenges. The action reopens access and affordability debates at public institutions, where residency rules drive tuition differentials and enrollment decisions. University financial‑aid offices and enrollment officers are preparing for potential policy shifts and litigation outcomes that could affect thousands of students. Advocates argue the change would harm access and retention for vulnerable students, while supporters frame it as rule‑of‑law enforcement. The case will likely move through the courts and could shape similar debates in other states.