Texas GOP Advances Key Legislation on Immigration and Education Costs

Key Takeaways

• Senate Bill 1798 aims to end in-state tuition and financial aid for over 59,000 undocumented Texas students.
• Governor Abbott supports extending the tuition freeze at public universities through the 2026-2027 academic year.
• Texas approved a $1 billion voucher program for private schools alongside increased public school funding.

The Texas GOP’s Push to Reshape Immigration and Education Policy: What’s at Stake for Undocumented Students and Families

The Texas GOP is pushing for major changes in immigration and education policy, with a focus on ending in-state tuition for undocumented students and keeping college costs down for Texas families. As of late May 2025, these efforts have reached a critical point in the Texas Legislature. Senate Bill 1798, which would end in-state tuition and state financial aid for undocumented students, has passed committee but has not yet come up for a full Senate vote. Meanwhile, Governor Greg Abbott is calling for an extension of the tuition freeze at public universities, and lawmakers have approved a large private school voucher program. These moves reflect the Texas GOP’s priorities but have sparked heated debate across the state.

Below, we break down the latest developments, what they mean for students and families, and how the outcome could shape Texas for years to come.

Senate Bill 1798: The Fight Over In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students

Senate Bill 1798, written by Sen. Mayes Middleton (R–Galveston), is at the heart of the Texas GOP’s immigration agenda. The bill would end in-state tuition and state-funded financial aid for undocumented students at Texas public universities. This means that undocumented students—many of whom have lived in Texas for most of their lives—would have to pay much higher out-of-state tuition rates and would lose access to state grants and scholarships.

As of May 22, 2025, SB 1798 had passed the Senate Education Committee and was placed on the Senate intent calendar, but it had not yet been brought to the Senate floor for a vote. The legislative session’s deadline for House consideration was May 27, leaving little time for action. The bill’s future is now uncertain unless lawmakers call a special session or try again in the next legislative cycle.

What Would Change if SB 1798 Becomes Law?

If SB 1798 passes, the following changes would take effect:

• In-State Tuition Ends for Undocumented Students: Over 59,000 undocumented students currently enrolled in Texas colleges and universities would lose their eligibility for in-state tuition and state financial aid.
• Higher Costs: These students would face out-of-state tuition rates, which are often two to three times higher than in-state rates.
• Proof of Status Required: Students would need to provide documentation of legal status or proof they have applied for permanent residency to qualify for in-state tuition, as outlined in a related bill, House Bill 232.
• Reclassification and Billing: If a student is found ineligible, the university would reclassify them as out-of-state and bill them for the difference in tuition.
• Diploma Withholding: Universities could withhold diplomas if the tuition difference is not paid within 30 days.
• Reporting to Authorities: Universities would be required to report suspected misrepresentation of immigration status to the Texas Attorney General.
• State Funding Tied to Compliance: Universities’ state funding would depend on following the new rules.

These steps would make it much harder for undocumented students to afford and complete college in Texas.

Why Is the Texas GOP Pushing for This Change?

The Texas GOP has made ending in-state tuition for undocumented students a top priority. Abraham George, the Texas GOP Chair, called SB 1798 “essential” to the party’s legislative goals and a key tool for deterring illegal immigration. Supporters argue that taxpayer money should only support legal residents and that current policies encourage more undocumented immigration.

Sen. Middleton, who wrote SB 1798, estimates that Texas spent $150 million subsidizing higher education for undocumented students in the 2024-2025 academic year. Chris Russo, president of Texans for Strong Borders, says ending in-state tuition would remove a major incentive for illegal immigration.

Opposition and Concerns from Advocates and Education Leaders

Opponents of SB 1798 warn that the bill would harm students who have grown up in Texas, many of whom have attended Texas schools since childhood. They argue that access to in-state tuition has allowed undocumented students to contribute to the state’s economy and society. Removing this access, they say, would reduce college completion rates, hurt the state’s workforce, and limit opportunities for thousands of young people.

Advocates point to personal stories of undocumented students who have graduated from Texas universities and gone on to successful careers, paying taxes and giving back to their communities. Education leaders are also worried about the impact on university funding and the broader economy.

A 2025 poll found that 56% of Texans support repealing the 2001 “Texas Dream Act,” which first allowed undocumented students to pay in-state tuition, while 44% oppose it. This shows that the issue is deeply divisive.

Background: The Texas Dream Act and Shifting Policies

Texas was the first state to allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition, passing the Texas Dream Act in 2001. Since then, at least 24 other states have adopted similar policies. The law has helped thousands of students attend college who might not have been able to afford it otherwise.

In recent years, the Texas GOP has made border enforcement and the removal of public benefits for undocumented immigrants central to its platform. The push to repeal in-state tuition for undocumented students has grown stronger, reflecting broader national debates over immigration and education.

House Bill 232: Tightening Eligibility for In-State Tuition

Alongside SB 1798, House Bill 232, written by Rep. Cody Vasut (R–Angleton), would require students 18 or older to show proof of application for permanent residency to qualify for in-state tuition. Both bills would make students liable for the difference if reclassified as out-of-state and allow universities to withhold diplomas for nonpayment.

How Would the Process Work if SB 1798 or HB 232 Passes?

If either bill becomes law, universities would need to:

1. Review Student Status: Check all students’ immigration status to determine eligibility for in-state tuition.
2. Require Proof: Ask students to provide documentation of legal status or proof of application for permanent residency.
3. Reclassify and Bill: Reclassify students found ineligible as out-of-state and bill them for the higher tuition.
4. Withhold Diplomas: Hold diplomas if the tuition difference is not paid within 30 days.
5. Report to Attorney General: Report any suspected misrepresentation of immigration status.
6. Monitor Compliance: Ensure compliance, as state funding would depend on following the new law.

For more details on Texas tuition policies and student eligibility, readers can visit the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Governor Greg Abbott’s Tuition Freeze: Addressing College Affordability

While the debate over in-state tuition for undocumented students continues, Governor Greg Abbott is focusing on college affordability for all Texas families. He has called for an extension of the tuition freeze at Texas public universities through the 2026-2027 academic year. This builds on a previous freeze supported by $700 million in extra state funding for 2024-2025.

The tuition freeze means that public universities cannot raise tuition rates for the next two years, giving families more predictability in college costs. Governor Abbott says this move is needed to keep higher education within reach for Texas students.

Public School Funding and the New Voucher Program

In April 2025, the Texas House approved a $1 billion private school voucher program, allowing public funds to be used for private school tuition. At the same time, lawmakers increased the base funding for public schools by $395 per student, raising the basic allotment to $6,555. Forty percent of this funding is set aside for non-administrative staff salaries, with a focus on experienced teachers.

The voucher program marks a major shift in Texas education policy, expanding school choice for families but raising concerns about the impact on public school funding and equity. The bill also introduces stricter teacher certification requirements and changes special education funding to a needs-based model.

Key Numbers at a Glance

• Undocumented Students in College: Over 59,000 in Texas
• Estimated State Spending on Undocumented Students: $150 million (2024-2025)
• Public School Funding Increase: $395 per student, raising the basic allotment to $6,555
• Voucher Program Funding: $1 billion for private school vouchers
• Teacher Incentive Allotment: Over $575 million distributed to 597 school districts since 2019-2020

Stakeholder Perspectives: Multiple Sides of the Debate

• Texas GOP/Conservatives: Strongly support ending in-state tuition for undocumented students, arguing it will deter illegal immigration and protect taxpayer resources. They also back the tuition freeze and voucher program as ways to improve education and give families more choices.
• Democrats/Progressives: Emphasize the positive contributions of undocumented students and the importance of educational access for all Texas residents. They warn that removing in-state tuition will hurt students, families, and the state’s economy.
• Education Leaders: Worry about the impact on college access, university funding, and the state’s workforce. They stress that reducing college opportunities for undocumented youth could have long-term negative effects.
• Undocumented Student Advocates: Share personal stories of success and argue that access to in-state tuition has allowed them to contribute to Texas in meaningful ways.

What Happens Next? The Future of Immigration and Education Policy in Texas

With the legislative session’s deadline passed, the fate of SB 1798 is uncertain. The bill could be revived in a special session or reintroduced in the next legislative cycle. The debate over in-state tuition for undocumented students is likely to remain a major issue in Texas politics, with strong feelings on both sides.

Meanwhile, the tuition freeze and voucher program signal ongoing changes in Texas education policy. Lawmakers are expected to keep working on ways to make college more affordable and expand school choice, even as debates over immigration continue.

Practical Guidance for Students and Families

• Undocumented Students: If you are currently enrolled or planning to attend a Texas public university, stay informed about changes to tuition policies. Check with your school’s admissions or financial aid office for updates.
• Families: The tuition freeze means college costs at public universities will stay the same through 2026-2027. This can help with planning and budgeting.
• Educators and Advocates: Monitor legislative developments and be ready to support students who may be affected by policy changes.

Where to Find More Information

• Texas Legislature Online: For the latest status and text of SB 1798 and HB 232, visit Texas Legislature Online.
• Texas GOP: For legislative priorities and updates, see texasgop.org.
• Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board: For official information on tuition policies and student eligibility, visit Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
• Governor’s Office: For statements and policy initiatives, see gov.texas.gov.
• Texas Tribune: For in-depth reporting on legislative developments, visit texastribune.org.

Conclusion: A State at a Crossroads

Texas is at a crossroads on immigration and education policy. The Texas GOP, with support from Governor Greg Abbott, is working to reshape who can access affordable higher education and how public funds are used in schools. Senate Bill 1798, if passed, would have a major impact on undocumented students, while the tuition freeze and voucher program will affect families across the state.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these debates are not just about laws and budgets—they are about real people’s lives and futures. The choices Texas lawmakers make in the coming months and years will shape the state’s economy, workforce, and communities for a generation.

For now, students, families, and educators should stay informed, speak up about their concerns, and prepare for possible changes. The conversation about immigration and education in Texas is far from over, and the outcome will matter to everyone who calls the state home.

Learn Today

Senate Bill 1798 → Legislation proposing to end in-state tuition and state aid for undocumented students in Texas universities.
In-State Tuition → Reduced tuition rate offered to residents of a state for attending public universities within that state.
Tuition Freeze → A policy preventing tuition increases at public colleges and universities for a specified period.
Voucher Program → A system where public funds are used to pay for private school tuition.
Texas Dream Act → 2001 Texas law allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition at public colleges.

This Article in a Nutshell

Texas GOP’s Senate Bill 1798 threatens undocumented students’ access to affordable tuition. Governor Abbott pushes tuition freeze. Meanwhile, a $1 billion voucher program expands school choice, sparking debate on education funding and immigration policies affecting thousands of Texas families and students in 2025 legislative sessions.
— By VisaVerge.com