The Trump administration is reviving a rule that could deny green cards to immigrants who use public benefits such as food stamps, Medicaid, and housing vouchers. The policy, known as “public charge,” was officially published in the Federal Register on July 20 and will take effect September 18.
This rule was first implemented in February 2020 during President Donald Trump’s term as a measure to limit legal immigration. The Biden administration reversed the policy after taking office. The rule requires applicants for green cards to demonstrate that they will not become a burden to the country or a “public charge.”
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services stated on its X account that the 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.” The agency added, “Under President Trump, USCIS is restoring the basic principle that immigrants must be able to support themselves."
While the administration has focused on deportations and enforcement at borders, this action targets legal immigrants and mixed-status families. Federal law already mandates that those seeking permanent residency must prove they won't become a public charge. However, the Trump administration’s revived rule broadens the scope of programs that could lead to disqualification.
Immigrant rights advocates previously criticized the 2018 promotion of this rule, calling it a “wealth test.” Public health experts expressed concerns that it would negatively impact health outcomes. Nongovernmental organizations reported that the policy created confusion and fear, causing many immigrants and their U.S.-born relatives to forgo benefits and services they were entitled to.