New Mexico to offer free tuition to state residents

The big picture: With student debt reaching $1.5 trillion nationally, at least half the states have begun to offer some type of free college to help its residents grapple with rising costs. Some schools or programs, like the recent announcement from Cornell's medical school, have taken it upon themselves to pay for all costs for students.

Yes, but: The New Mexico proposal is only for tuition and won't include room and board, books or other living expenses. The proposal still needs legislative approval.

Go deeper: Debt-free college: Where the 2020 presidential candidates stand