North Carolina community colleges on Tuesday banned illegal immigrants from seeking degrees, a policy that is among the most restrictive in the nation.

Community College System President Scott Ralls said he based the decision on the advice of the state Attorney General's Office, which said last week that federal law appears to prevent states from enrolling illegal immigrants in state colleges and universities.

"We sought that advice, and we plan to follow that advice until further clarification," Ralls said of the Attorney General's guidance.

The decision takes effect immediately at the system's 58 campuses and reverses a policy that allowed those students to enter and pay out-of-state tuition that more than covers the cost of instruction. It comes despite the federal government's assertion last week that it has no authority over admissions at North Carolina colleges, and despite Gov. Mike Easley's request that the colleges remain open to all.

Ralls said he will continue to seek clarification of federal law regarding the eligibility of illegal immigrants for postsecondary education, and that another policy change is possible. Ralls, who became president of the system this month, said this is the fourth time since 2001 that the system has changed its policy on illegal immigrants.

"It's the issue of the day," Ralls said. "We're trying to navigate our way as best we can."

How is this racist? Are you kidding me? I would throw a stamp on their head and stuff them in mailboxes.

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Someone please put me out of my misery....