In-state tuition for illegal or undocumented children? Yes.

A lot of criticism has been focused on Rick Perry's stance on providing in-state tuition to children of illegal immigrants. This is one area where the Republican candidate and the Democratic party agree.

And, I, although a staunch conservative, strongly 

agree and support this position.

As a young child, I was raised by multiple families. But, I was blessed that they all agreed that my education was most important. All I had to do was go to school and study hard. If I did that, my tuition was completely paid for. Yes, I was blessed to have my adoptive parents, God, and my real mother in heaven watching over me. Because of their actions, I have had a successful career. I stressed the value of an education to my child, and he is now out of college and has a terrific job.

But what about all the other children in this country who suffer difficult lives? As Governor Perry states, the children of illegal immigrants were either born here or brought to this country. They didn't deal their hand, but live with the consequences of their parents decision daily.

Both Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum blast Perry for the Texas law. Both cite the amount of money that the public is paying to subsidize the illegal children's education. They also say that Texas is denying a discounted education to other children of legalized status that live in other states. Neither take into account that:

• children in other states can attend their own state universities
• the cost of the education is paid by the people of Texas, and not the people of the United States.

Currently, 13 states have passed laws allowing undocumented children to be eligible to pay the reduced tuition if they meet certain condidions. In Texas, those who:

• have graduated high school in Texas,
• lived in the state for 3 years, and
• are applying for citizenship,

are eligible. To me, applying for citizenship is the critical requirement because it shows that the children are dedicated to our country, its beliefs, and opportunities.

While I'm not advocating the tolerance of illegal immigration,  I do support Mr. Perry and others, regardless of party, in their actions to provide these children with the opportunity to have a productive and rewarding life as educated citizens of the United States.

States that have passed Illegal Immigrant Tuition Legislation (see "illegal Immigrants ..." below):

1. California
2. Connecticut
3. Illinois
4. Kansas
5. Maryland
6. Nebraska
7. New Mexico
8. New York
9. Oklahoma (with discretion)
10. Texas
11. Utah
12. Washington
13. Wisconsin

Note that neither Romney's Massachusetts or Santorum's Pennsylvania are on the list.

Sources

• Rick Perry supported giving in-state tuition to illegals
• U.S. high court OKs in-state tuition for illegals
• In-state college tuition for illegal aliens
• Candidates at GOP Debate Refine Their Pitches to Voters While Targeting Front-Runner Perry
• Foes in ‘heart’ attack
• Illegal Immigrants Pay In-State Tuition