Unless things have changed, it's pretty much always been this way. Those who claim you as a dependant cannot make above a certain level for you to claim student aid. I don't know if that's the same thing as what you describe, however.
It must really p_________ you off big time to read this kind of stuff.
Yes, this kind of nonsense drives me up the proverbial wall. Not just because I immigrated legally, but because no one screams bloodly murder when such BS comes to light. "Oh, they just want a better education!" Well, give me a break, but who the hell doesn't!?