Final Rule Expands List of Programs to Be Considered Under ‘Public Charge’ Test
On Aug. 12, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) finalized a rule to change the policy under which the federal government can deny immigrants U.S. entry or adjustment to their legal permanent resident status (e.g., green card) if they are determined likely to become public charges (see CHA’s response). The final rule expands the list of programs that may be considered for determining public charge status, to include not only cash assistance and long-term care but also certain health care, nutrition, and housing programs.