Trent Lott: “This language would allow States, on a prospective basis, if I understand it, to not be required to have to provide free…”

“This language would allow States, on a prospective basis, if I understand it, to not be required to have to provide free education for the children of illegal immigrants. There are many States now that have a financial burden of being told by the Federal Government, 'We can't control our borders, we can't control illegal immigration into this country, but in spite of our failure, you have to provide free education.' In the State of California, I think we are talking about well over 300,000 children, at a cost to that State of $2 billion for the education of the children of illegal immigrants. Should we not allow the States to have options here?”