US to Deny Green Cards to Mostly Non-White immigrants who use Public Benefits

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on Thursday announced the return of the “public charge” rule for immigrants. Immigrants must already demonstrate that they will not become public charges, or persons who depend on the government for subsistence, but the new rule will expand the range of public benefits that immigration officials may consider when determining whether immigrants are likely to become primarily dependent on government assistance.

The expanded list could include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/food stamps), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, housing vouchers and others programs. The rule will also allow immigration officials to consider age, health, education, and job skills in determining eligibility for green cards.

USCIS announced the change on social media platform X, saying, “This final rule is intended to help ensure that those seeking permanent residence are able to support themselves and are not likely to become primarily dependent on public assistance… [USCIS is] protecting public resources and ending policies that encouraged dependency on the backs of hard-working American taxpayers.”

The rule change appeared in the Federal Register on July 16. It will be formally published on July 20 and expected to take effect on September 18. [MORE]