PELL CITY (AP) – A pared-down state board of education has passed a new policy denying illegal immigrants admission to Alabama’s two-year colleges.

The policy, which takes affect next spring, was passed on a 4-0 vote Thursday, with one member abstaining. Three others were absent, as was Gov. Bob Riley, the board’s president.

The policy was sought by Chancellor Bradley Byrne, who said he did not think it would affect many would-be students. He sought the change because he said it did not make sense to spend taxpayer money educating people who would be unable to obtain legal employment.

Two advocates for immigrants spoke out against the policy, saying it needed more discussion.

The vote was taken at a meeting in Pell City.