(June 5, 2025) On Wednesday evening, a federal judge ruled the Texas Dream Act unconstitutional, halting access to in-state tuition for undocumented students. That decision came just hours after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) sued the state seeking to end the Texas law. The Texas Attorney General sided with the DOJ instead of defending the state’s own policy.
The behind-closed-doors deal is devastating to the many Texas Dreamers who have worked hard in school and whose families have paid taxes and sacrificed so their children could attend a Texas college. The decision impacts thousands of Texas college students currently enrolled who may now not be able to afford to continue their education.
In 2001, Texas led the nation by passing a visionary law that has since opened opportunities for countless Texas Dreamers – many who have lived in Texas most of their lives and are now the teachers, nurses, engineers and entrepreneurs who help our communities thrive.
During the 2025 Texas legislative session, hundreds of students, educators, business leaders and community members opposed Senate Bill 1798 and House Bill 232, two bills seeking to repeal the Texas Dream Act. Attempts to undo the law in the legislature and in state and federal courts have repeatedly failed over the last two decades. Yesterday, the DOJ and the state of Texas circumvented the democratic process.
Ending the Texas Dream Act strips away educational opportunities from Texans, weakens our future workforce, and undermines a policy that has delivered clear, measurable benefits to our state. Texas Dreamers are Texans and deserve equal educational opportunities. We will not back down to protect Texas Dreamers.
Share Your Story
Students, families and educators: we need to hear from you. Use our story collection tool and take 5 minutes to share questions, frustrations and stories about the impact of the Texas Dream Act and how the court’s decision may affect you.
Tools and Resources
The Law in Education – YCT v Smatresk at UNT – Classnotes Podcast #243, July 1, 2024
Supportive College Climates for Undocumented Students – Classnotes Podcast #242, April 29, 2024
DACA Student Access to Education, Webpage
Media Contact: Thomas Marshall, M.Ed. (thomas.marshall@idra.org)
