The Trump administration is bringing back a policy that could make some immigrants ineligible for green cards if they have used certain public benefits and forms of government support.
Known as the “public charge” rule, the policy appeared in the Federal Register on Thursday.
The move affects immigrants’ access to programs such as food assistance, Medicaid, housing vouchers, and other forms of government support. The Trump administration plans to evaluate certain immigrants’ reliance on those taxpayer-funded programs and benefits as part of the green card approval process.
Under the policy, green card applicants must demonstrate that they are unlikely to become a financial burden on the country, or a “public charge.”
While federal law already requires those seeking permanent residency or legal status to show that they are unlikely to become a public charge, the Trump administration’s rule expands the scope of benefits and programs that could be considered in determining eligibility and potentially disqualify those applying for such government support.
The Trump administration first introduced the rule in 2018, arguing that it would ensure that immigrants coming to the United States could support themselves financially.
Immigrant rights advocates have criticized the policy, calling it a “wealth test,” while public health experts warned that it could contribute to poorer health outcomes.
The rule is scheduled for formal publication in the Federal Register on July 20, and will take effect on Sept. 18.