A coalition of Democratic-led cities and states, including New York City, has filed a lawsuit challenging a new rule from the Trump administration that expands the criteria for denying green cards to immigrants. The rule, set to take effect Friday, grants immigration officers broader discretion to reject green card applications from individuals deemed "likely at any time to become a public charge."
The Trump administration announced the policy in July, altering existing law that allowed denial of green cards only for those primarily dependent on cash assistance or long-term federal medical care. The updated rule includes non-cash, temporary programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children).
Under the new policy, federal officials could deny permanent legal status to an individual if they believe the person might require such programs at any point. Critics argue this could prevent U.S. citizens from sponsoring family members, as a child's participation in programs like free school lunches could be held against a parent's citizenship application.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated that the rule is an "undisguised effort to strip New Yorkers of the services they rely on." He expressed concerns that the policy could lead to severe consequences for residents.
In a separate legal challenge, New York Attorney General Letitia James, along with 21 other states, also filed a lawsuit against the public charge rule. The complaint, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, asserts that the rule will likely lead to increased homelessness, untreated illnesses, food insecurity, and lack of access to education.
James emphasized that New Yorkers should not face a choice between essential services and their pursuit of a future in the country. "New Yorkers should not have to choose between putting food on the table, getting the health care they need, and pursuing a future in this country," she said.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has stated that certain groups, including asylum seekers, refugees, and victims of human trafficking, will not be affected by the rule. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson commented on the lawsuits, suggesting that sanctuary states are concerned about losing federal funds due to potential changes in welfare program usage by noncitizens.