Simple. It’s not based on the child’s taxes (or future taxes) because then they could go to a California college, claim residency there immediately, and get Cal

Simple. It’s not based on the child’s taxes (or future taxes) because then they could go to a California college, claim residency there immediately, and get California prices. Instead, I have to pay an extra $30k or so for them. Further, they haven’t paid any taxes before college, because they were in high school. So again, the fact that each state gives “local” kids a break has nothing to do with the kids taxes. Kids haven’t paid taxes, and kids moving state doesn’t change fees. What does matter? My taxes, as parent. I pay soooo much taxes and I will continue to do so. As a result my kid is essentially forced to go to a college in state. And he will then FOR SURE move out of state. But I won’t. So. It’s a cost to me. Like we are considering moving back to CA to get the UC discount. I will pay more in taxes but I’ll get a chunk of it back in tuition break.