Higher education expands opportunity and strengthens Colorado’s economy—but not everyone has equal access to it. In Education Without Exceptions, Colorado Fiscal Institute senior economist Chris Stiffler and policy analyst Sophie Shea explore how recent federal executive orders threaten access to in-state tuition for Colorado students, particularly those from immigrant communities.

The report highlights how college graduates contribute more to their local economies, earn higher wages, and generate more tax revenue to support vital public services like schools and infrastructure. Undermining access to in-state tuition not only disrupts the educational pipeline but also jeopardizes long-term economic growth and the state’s investment in K–12 education.

Protecting affordable pathways to higher education for all Colorado students is essential to building a stronger, more inclusive economy.

Download the full report here