HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed legislation that allows immigrant students without legal status to be eligible for institutional financial aid at state-run colleges and universities.

Malloy said Friday he hopes the actions taken in Connecticut will counteract attempts in Washington, D.C., to "punish" immigrant children by ending DACA, the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. He says the new law sends a message "there is another way" and people can be treated "fairly and honestly."

Malloy signed the legislation in his Capitol office, surrounding by immigrant students. Some have worked for five years to pass the bill, which takes effect in January 2020.

Proponents say the students should receive aid from a fund they paid into with tuition. Opponents worry students living here legally could be harmed.