Tennessee Senate Bill Sparks Immigration Education Debate

A contentious bill in Tennessee's Senate seeks to allow public schools to either charge tuition to undocumented students or deny them enrollment, contingent upon verifying their citizenship or legal status. This legislation, spearheaded by Republican Bo Watson, has passed the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee and is advancing towards a full Senate vote, despite opposition from some Republicans and Democrats concerned about the financial and ethical implications. Critics argue that the bill poses an unfunded mandate on schools and could contravene the 1982 Plyler v. Doe Supreme Court ruling, which prohibits denying students free public education based on immigration status. Protests have occurred, with demonstrators like Lynne McFarland being removed from hearings for dissenting actions. Furthermore, the bill is part of a broader effort by the GOP to challenge established federal education rights for undocumented students, aligning with a national conservative agenda.