LeadingAge National is seeking input from its members on a proposed immigration rule released by Department on Homeland Security (DHS). The proposed rule would deny entry to individuals seeking admission to the United States or adjusting their immigration status to become a permanent resident (green card holder) if there is any likelihood that the individual will become a “public charge” at any time in the future. DHS defines a public charge as “an alien who receives one or more public benefits”. Factors considered to make the determination for entry and/or adjustment of status include age; health; family status; assets, resources, and financial status; education and skills. The public charge benefits mentioned in the proposed rule are:
- Medicaid (with limited exceptions including Medicaid coverage of an “emergency medical condition,” and certain disability services related to education);
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)(formerly called food stamps);
- Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy (assistance in purchasing medicine);
- Federal Public Housing, Section 8 housing vouchers and Section 8 Project Based rental assistance.
LeadingAge will work with our partner organizations to draft a letter explaining the impact of this new rule on our member organizations. Please send your comments/feedback/story to Eram Abbasi at eabbasi@leadingAge.org by November 12, 2018.
