House and Senate Democratic immigration leaders submitted a formal regulatory comment opposing the Trump administration’s proposed “Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility” rule. The members argue that the rule unlawfully redefines the term “public charge” to penalize immigrants for using non-cash benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance—programs that Congress has deliberately made available to certain immigrant populations.
The statement asserts that the proposed rule circumvents Congress and violates longstanding legislative intent, warning that it would deter immigrant families from accessing lawful assistance and lead to negative public health outcomes. The members cite DHS’s own acknowledgment that the rule could increase poverty, worsen health outcomes, and strain emergency services.
The comment was submitted by Ranking Members Scott, Raskin, Jayapal, Durbin, and Padilla, along with Senators Sanders and Wyden. The members urge DHS to abandon the proposal and maintain the 2022 regulations, which they say reflect congressional intent and protect public health.