Gov. Greg Abbott Extends Tuition Freeze for Texas Colleges and Universities, Signals Potential Cut in Border Security Funding

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that he will not support any tuition increases at Texas colleges and universities for the next two years, extending the current tuition freeze. This decision follows historic investments in higher education, including an additional $700 million allocated to the state budget for public universities in the last legislative session. Abbott emphasized the importance of keeping higher education accessible and affordable, noting that it allows Texans to earn better wages, meet workforce qualifications, and experience a higher quality of life.

In a related development, Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick have indicated a potential reduction in Texas’ border security spending following President-elect Donald Trump‘s victory. Abbott suggested that Texas will continue its border security measures as a “stopgap effort” until Trump implements his own border and immigration policies. Once these policies are in place, Texas may consider repurposing the funds currently allocated to Operation Lone Star, which has cost $11 billion to date. The funds could be redirected towards initiatives such as property tax cuts or education.

Abbott’s commitment to affordability and accessibility in education aligns with his broader economic policies, which include significant property tax cuts. Recently, he highlighted the largest property tax cut in Texas history, amounting to $18 billion, during the Texas Oil & Gas Association’s 2024 Lone Star Energy Forum in Frisco. This move is part of Abbott’s efforts to support the state’s economy and attract more businesses to Texas.