Stephen Miller, President Trump's top immigration adviser, suggested ending public education funding for undocumented children during a closed-door meeting with Texas lawmakers last week, directly challenging the 1982 Plyler v. Doe Supreme Court precedent. Miller cited congressional gridlock as he encouraged Texas Republicans to pass conservative legislation, including a bill that would have funded schools only for citizens or 'lawfully present' students.

This proposal would reverse a landmark ruling that mandates equal access to public education regardless of immigration status. Republicans in Texas, who dominate both legislative chambers and hold all statewide offices, have previously expressed support for challenging Plyler. Governor Greg Abbott's spokesman reiterated the governor's stance that 'American citizens should be first in line for government services' and criticized policies 'supporting those whose entry into this country began with breaking its laws.' Ending funding for undocumented students in Texas, estimated at over 100,000 children out of 5.5 million students, would be a major reversal potentially replicated in other red states with large immigrant communities.

The discussion occurred amidst a broader meeting with cabinet secretaries, but Miller's question about a 'RINO problem' in Texas created awkwardness, highlighting internal party tensions. While not presented as a direct directive, the Plyler challenge represents a significant policy shift sought by the Trump administration through conservative states.