Bill that could allow Tennessee schools to not admit undocumented students advances

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF)- A bill that could impact the ability of undocumented immigrants to be admitted into Tennessee public schools is stirring controversy across the state.

Proposed by Senator Bo Watson of Chattanooga, House Bill 793 would allow for schools to deny admission to undocumented students.

Each school district would have to decide if they would enforce it.

He argues that the bill is necessary as many school districts are facing increasingly tight budgets and limited resources.

However, dozens of protestors showed up to the house’s K-12 education subcommittee Tuesday morning, as the tense nature of the legislation was on full display.

Sen. Watson said, “I understand why people choose not to discuss this sensitive issue of how do we deal with undocumented students that are in many of our schools, but it is psychical reality that we need to address.”

He argues that the 1982 Supreme Court decision in Plyler v. Doe has led to this situation.

In the Plyler decision, the Court ruled by a 5-4 majority that undocumented students could not be denied access to school.

Sen. Watson argues this is problematic based on conversations he’s had with local officials.

“In an unofficial capacity, at numerous events at numerous meetings that I’ve had with people associated with K-12 education, have I been told about this problem we’re having? Absolutely,” he said.

However, opponents like Representative Yusuf Hakeem say they are concerned about the impact this will have on undocumented children.

“We sometimes I think don’t look at human beings as human beings, we just look at them as numbers or not like us,” said Rep. Hakeem.

For some who testified like Daniel Hernandez, a student who is an immigrant, this issue is very personal.

“Let us be kids because we only dream and use our imagination. As God’s children, we deserve respect and compassion before you make your choice,” said Hernandez.

The bill will now go to the main floors of both assemblies for their consideration.