College tuition will be free for most New Mexico residents under the “New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship Act.”

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed Senate Bill 140 on Friday. The bill will use $75 million to waive tuition for students attending any in-state public school, tribal colleges or community colleges, according to a press release by the governor's office.

"For over a quarter of a century, New Mexico has been a national leader in providing free college to its residents. A fully funded Opportunity Scholarship opens the door for every New Mexican to reach higher, strengthening our economy, our families and our communities," Lujan Grisham said in the release.

"Signing this legislation sends a clear message to New Mexicans that we believe in them and the contributions they will make for their families and the future of our great state."

The New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship Act First was first introduced in 2019 and has provided around 10,000 students with tuition-free college. Now, it will be able to reach an abundance of students. It is expected to support up to 35,000 students in the upcoming fall semester.

To be eligible, a student must be a New Mexico resident, be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours and maintain a grade-point average of at least 2.5.

“Today, we have taken a large step toward improving outcomes for all New Mexicans by investing in their potential and the potential of our entire state. Working hand in hand with Governor Lujan Grisham and Secretary Rodriguez, we are making transformative change possible for every family and community,” State Sen. Liz Stefanics said in the release.