FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2022
CONTACT
Email: [email protected]
Madison Allman, 202-384-1279
NILC Statement on the Public Charge Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
WASHINGTON — Eddie Carmona, campaigns director for the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement on the Biden administration’s proposed new rule (PDF) on public charge:
“The Biden administration’s proposed rule on public charge is an important step toward addressing significant racial and economic disparities in immigrant communities that the COVID-19 pandemic only worsened. Though the proposed rule aligns with longstanding principles that govern public charge and provides helpful clarifications, the proposal falls short in failing to clearly exclude all state and local programs from public charge determinations. We will continue to analyze these proposed changes and urge the Biden administration to implement the most inclusive final rule possible.
“Ultimately, the Biden administration is accountable for building an equitable immigration system and undoing the harms of the Trump years – including combatting the chilling effects of President Trump’s cruel ‘wealth test.’ It is crucial that the Biden administration continue to rebuild trust with immigrant communities and ensure that immigrants who call the U.S. home know it’s safe to seek the health and economic supports that they need to thrive.”
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Overview of Immigrant Eligibility for Federal Programs (Table)
Updated Oct 15, 2026 This table provides an overview of immigrant eligibility for the major federal public assistance programs. Originally published in November 2015.
Major Benefit Programs Available to Immigrants in California (Table)
Updated Oct 15, 2026 This table lists the programs for which certain immigrants residing in California are eligible. Originally published in May 2017.
FAQ: The Federal Government Wants to Deny Refundable Tax Credits to Many Immigrants
Updated Oct 7, 2026 The U.S. Treasury and IRS have proposed a new rule to radically change who can receive vital tax credits, excluding many immigrants who currently work, pay taxes, and meet existing eligibility requirements. This resource answers questions about...
What Immigrants Need to Know About the New ACA Eligibility Restrictions
Sarah Krieger
Published Oct 9, 2026 Congress has ensured that immigrant families will struggle more to afford health coverage and necessary care when open enrollment begins next month.