The Public Charge Rule Is No More - What to Know About the Updates

Over the past few months, a lot of changes have been made to the U.S. immigration laws. One of the most recent changes is the removal of the public charge rule. If you have been affected by the public charge rule in the past, it is important to learn about the latest updates. Read on to learn more about the end of the public charge rule.

The phrase “public charge” refers to an immigrant’s use of public benefits. For example, if you are someone who now requires, or will require the use of Supplemental Security Income, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, most forms of Medicaid, certain housing programs, income maintenance, or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, you would no longer be considered “admissible,” when it comes to applying for a Green Card.

On February 24, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security implemented Inadmissibility on Public Charge Grounds Final Rule. This meant that if you were an immigrant that was currently considered a “public charge,” or DHS determined that you would be at any point in the future, you would most likely be denied a Green Card.

Recently, the Biden administration has decided that the government “will no longer defend the 2019 public charge rule as doing so is neither in the public interest nor an efficient use of limited government resources,” according to The Department of Homeland Security.

Additionally, The Department of Homeland Security has stated, “‘the 2019 public charge rule was not in keeping with our nation’s values. It penalized those who access health benefits and other government services available to them,’ said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. ‘Consistent with the President’s vision, we will continue to implement reforms that improve our legal immigration system.’”

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the public charge rule or any other aspects of the immigration process, contact our firm to speak with an experienced and dedicated immigration attorney today.

Katona & Associates, PLLC is an experienced, highly dedicated New York City immigration law firm located in lower Manhattan. Our firm works with clients in all matters of immigration law, including employment immigration, family immigration, deportation defense, green cards, and citizenship. Contact us to discuss your case and get the help you need.