The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Thursday that it will revive a regulation allowing the government to deny permanent residency to immigrants who use certain public benefits. Under the rule, applicants for green cards may be disqualified if they are determined to be a "public charge," defined as someone primarily dependent on government subsistence. The policy is scheduled to take effect on September 18, 2026.
The rule expands the criteria for a public charge to include individuals who receive benefits such as food stamps or Medicaid for more than 12 months within a three-year window. This version of the policy was originally implemented in 2019 during President Donald Trump’s first term but was later narrowed by the Biden administration in 2022. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services stated the revival aims to ensure that foreign nationals in the United States remain self-reliant.
Supporters of the measure argue it protects taxpayer-funded resources and ensures immigrants are financially independent. Opponents and immigrant advocacy groups have previously criticized the rule, stating it targets lower-income individuals and may discourage eligible people from seeking necessary medical or nutritional assistance.