CHA submitted comments on a proposed rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that would exclude noncash benefits — including most Medicaid benefits — when making a public charge inadmissibility determination.
In the letter, CHA applauds DHS for responding to stakeholder concerns and proposing policies that address many of the concerns that contributed to the chilling effect of the 2019 public charge final rule. CHA strongly supports proposed policies that limit public charge determinations to specific benefits for subsistence, consideration of the totality of circumstances, and clarifying that only receipt of public benefits by named beneficiaries are considered in public charge inadmissibility determinations.
CHA remains concerned that lasting confusion and fear remain in the immigrant community due to policies included in the rescinded 2019 final rule, and urges the department to invest in public education efforts to ensure its policies are clearly communicated when a final rule is issued.