The Trump administration is reviving a rule that could deny green cards to illegal immigrants who use public benefits, including food stamps, Medicaid, and housing vouchers.
Background
The policy, known as ‘public charge,’ was first implemented in February 2020 but was reversed after President Joe Biden took office. The Trump administration is now reinstating the rule, which will be formally published on July 20.
The federal government is reaffirming the requirement of self-reliance, protecting public resources, and ending policies that encouraged dependency on the backs of hard-working American taxpayers, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Impact
Federal law already requires those seeking permanent residency or legal status to demonstrate that they will not become a public charge. However, the Trump administration’s rule includes a broader range of programs that could disqualify them.
Immigrant rights advocates have criticized the rule, saying it amounts to a ‘wealth test.’ Public health experts have also expressed concerns that it could lead to worse health outcomes.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
