From the Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition (http://www.paimmigrant.org):
The Department of Homeland Security has drafted new rules redefining “public charge” policies. The “public charge” test has been part of federal immigration law for decades. It is designed to identify people who may depend on government benefits as their main source of support. If the government determines someone is likely to become a “public charge,” the government can deny admission to the U.S. or refuse an application for lawful permanent residency (green card). The White House is currently reviewing a proposal that would change longstanding “public charge” policy, potentially forcing immigrant families to make an impossible choice between meeting basic needs and keeping their families together in this country. If finalized, the proposal by the Trump Administration would take us closer to a country whose doors are closed to countless families seeking a better life and open only to the highest bidder. This proposal would also jeopardize the health and wellbeing of millions of children as many taxpaying immigrant parents have U.S. citizen children who are eligible for programs like health care and food assistance. The proposal would discourage families from accessing programs that support these essential needs.
IF YOU WORK WITH IMMIGRANT FAMILIES
- The rules governing public charge determinations in the U.S. have not yet changed. There is no need for families to disenroll from programs for now. The leaked drafts of the rule makes it clear that any changes will only apply to benefits recieved after the rule is final.
- Some immigrant groups are not subject to“public charge.” Some groups of immigrants—such as refugees, asylees, those fleeing domestic violence, and other groups—are not subject to “public charge” determinations and will not be affected by this rule change.
- Educate yourself further about what this proposed rule would, and would not, do.
- Learn how changes to “public charge” are being applied in embassies and consulates.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register, the public will have an opportunity to submit comments and stories about how this rule will harm immigrant families and their communities. Start collecting those stories now!
- Have your organization sign-on to the national statement opposing the rule change.
- Contact your member of Congress and urge them to speak out against this rule.
- Get involved with the Protecting Immigrant Families campaign
PICC and Community Legal Services (CLS) will be monitoring developments and passing along sample comment templates as soon as the rule change is announced.
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