Thread: TX - Large turnout for hearing to repeal in state tuition for DREAMers

Senate Bill 1819 would repeal Texas Dream Act

Updated TODAY, 7:03 PM
By Myra Arthur

AUSTIN, Texas - A hearing was held before the Senate Subcommittee on Border Security Monday to discuss Senate Bill 1819, which would do away with the Texas Dream Act.

Also known as HB 1403, then-Gov. Rick Perry signed the Texas Dream Act into law in 2001 after it passed almost unanimously.

The legislation offers in-state college tuition to students in the country illegally who meet certain requirements.

For example, students must have graduated or received a GED from a Texas high school and been living in Texas three years prior to graduating and a year before enrolling in college.

SB 1819, authored by Sen. Donna Campbell, R-District 25, would abolish the in-state college tuition for students who are not legal U.S. citizens.

According to the Center for Public Policy Priorities, fewer than 2 percent of Texas students received in-state college tuition in 2013 who are “non-citizen students.”

That amounted to $51.6 million in tuition and fees paid in 2013, which added up to a $65 billion impact to the Texas economy.

Critics of SB 1819 argue that impact is just one reason to keep the Dream Act in tact.

According to Monday’s testimony, the average in state college tuition costs $9,500, while out of state tuition is two to three times that amount.

Senator Campbell maintained that the state’s most precious resources ought to be reserved for legal Texas residents.

Campbell's measure should eventually clear committee. Its chances of passing the full Legislature are less clear.

http://www.ksat.com/content/pns/ksat...r-dreamer.html

Senator Campbell maintained that the state’s most precious resources ought to be reserved for legal Texas residents.

Yes, Yes, Yes.