Texas Ends In-State Tuition for Students Without Legal Status
Texas has ended its decades-long policy of extending in-state tuition to students without legal status. This decision was announced by Attorney General Ken Paxton, who stated that the state had filed a joint motion with the U.S. Department of Justice to declare a section of the Texas Education Code "unconstitutional and invalid" and permanently block the state from enforcing it.
Background on the Policy
The policy, which was first introduced in 2001, allowed students without legal status to receive in-state tuition if they met certain requirements. This meant that these students could pay lower tuition rates, similar to those paid by Texas residents, rather than the higher out-of-state rates. Twenty-four states currently have similar policies in place.
The Reason Behind the Decision
The U.S. Department of Justice filed a complaint to stop Texas from giving in-state tuition to immigrant students without legal status, stating that the policy unconstitutionally discriminates against U.S. citizens who are not afforded the same privileges. According to the complaint, Texas allows students "who are not lawfully present in the United States to qualify for reduced tuition at public state colleges, even as U.S. citizens from other states must pay higher tuition rates."
Reaction to the Decision
The decision has been met with disappointment and criticism from some, including Dallas activist and DACA recipient Ramiro Luna, who stated that the complaint is an infringement on states’ rights. Luna expressed his concern that this decision will hurt young students who are trying to pursue their dreams and contribute to the state and the country. Democratic state Rep. Ramón Romero of Fort Worth also released a statement, calling the decision "shameful" and stating that targeting these students does nothing to make the country stronger.
The Impact of the Decision
There were approximately 57,000 students without legal status enrolled in Texas colleges and universities in 2022. The end of in-state tuition for these students may make it more difficult for them to afford higher education. The state Senate considered a bill that would have ended in-state tuition for students without legal status earlier this year, but the legislation failed to pass.
Conclusion
The decision to end in-state tuition for students without legal status in Texas is a significant one, with potential consequences for thousands of students. While some see this as a victory for the state, others are critical of the decision, arguing that it will harm young people who are trying to pursue their dreams and contribute to society. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the lives of these students and the state as a whole.
