Advocacy Opportunity: Public Charge--What is it and Why Does it Matter?

First 5's Statement on Proposed Changes and Comment Period

On December 10, 2018, the federal government will close public comment on proposed changes to immigration rules, modifying the definition of who can be considered a 'public charge'. Locally, First 5 has been a vocal leader about our opposition to these proposed changes. The current proposed change in the definition to public charge would limit immigrants' path to legal status if they have used a U.S. public welfare service. Under the new rule, immigrants who legally access health care (Non-Emergency Medicaid), food supports (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: SNAP — CalFresh in California), and housing assistance (Section 8) could be denied admission to the country or refused a green card. These programs have been proven to improve participants' health, well-being, school success, and economic security. For Monterey County, if implemented this would mean that many immigrant families will be forced to choose between getting much needed support for their children or following a path to legal status.

Check out our new public charge resource page by clicking here.

Additional Information:

• The public has 60 days to share their comments with the government through an official notice-and-comment period. It will close on December 10. Anyone—individuals or organizations can make comments.
  • You can submit comments by clicking here.
• Under federal law, the government is required to read and respond to every unique comment before issuing a final rule.
  • To view our comments, click here.
• To access more information, visit Children Now or Zero to Three.

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