The Department of Justice (DOJ) is taking legal action against Texas over its provision of in-state tuition rates to residents without legal status at public universities. This move by the Trump administration aims to challenge Texas laws that allow undocumented students to access these benefits.
DOJ’s Legal Challenge
The complaint filed by the DOJ in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas alleges that providing in-state tuition to individuals without lawful presence in the U.S. violates federal law. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that federal law prohibits granting benefits to illegal aliens that are not available to U.S. citizens.
History of Texas In-State Tuition Policy
Former Governor Rick Perry signed the Texas Dream Act in 2001, making Texas the pioneering state to offer in-state tuition eligibility to certain undocumented students. Despite several attempts to repeal this law, it has endured over the years, with more than 20 states adopting similar measures.
National Impact
This legal action in Texas reflects a broader trend among some Republicans to challenge in-state tuition benefits for undocumented students. Earlier this year, Florida Republicans revoked a similar measure that allowed undocumented students from Florida high schools to access in-state tuition rates.
President Trump’s administration has also targeted non-U.S. citizens in higher education. Recent efforts include a push to revoke visas for Chinese international students with ties to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields.
Policy Impact
These legal and policy changes have significant implications for higher education access and enrollment. The debate over in-state tuition for undocumented students continues to evolve, shaping the landscape of immigration policies and educational opportunities in the United States.
For further information on this legal battle and its implications, refer to Reputable Source.
