A top immigration bill backed by the Republican Party of Texas is at risk of dying in the Senate, despite sitting on the intent calendar for nearly a week.
In Texas, public colleges and universities are able to offer a reduced tuition rate to students who reside in the state because the state subsidizes the difference with taxpayer funds. This is done to encourage students to receive their secondary education within the state.
In 2001, Texas became the first state to pass legislation that allowed illegal aliens that live in Texas to receive in-state tuition. At least 24 other states have followed the example by passing similar legislation.
Currently there are over 59,000 illegal aliens enrolled in colleges and universities across the state.
Senate Bill 1798 by State Sen. Mayes Middleton (R–Galveston) would end in-state tuition and state-funded financial aid for illegal aliens at Texas public universities. The legislation was passed out of the Senate Education Committee on May 14 and added to the intent calendar on May 16—but has yet to be brought to the floor for a vote.
With just days remaining in the legislative session, time is running short. If the Senate doesn’t pass the bill soon, the House would be left with little time to act before the Tuesday, May 27 deadline—the last day Senate bills can be considered by the House.
Abraham George, chairman of the Republican Party of Texas, said the bill is essential to fulfilling one of the party’s core legislative priorities.
“The Texas GOP legislative priorities call for deterring illegal immigration. One of the most important ways Texas can do that is by passing Senator Mayes Middleton’s SB 1798, which ends in-state tuition for illegal aliens,” said George. “Every Republican should support this bill!”
