Number: 97-542
Title: The Right of Undocumented Alien Children to Basic Education: An Overview of Plyler v. Doe
Authors: Larry M. Eig, American Law Division 
Abstract: In Plyler v. Doe (457 U.S. 202 (1982), the Supreme Court overturned a Texas law that denied illegal aliens equal access to elementary and secondary schools. While the case set limits on state power, it also suggested that state authority to discriminate against illegal aliens may be influenced by Congress. The case further implied that states have broader power to discriminate when children and basic education rights are not at stake.
Pages: 2
Date: February 5, 2003