Receiving benefits is no longer an obstacle to immigration and citizenship: court decision

On Monday, November 2, US District Judge Gary Feinerman in Chicago, Illinois, rejected a rule imposed by the Trump administration that would deny green cards to immigrants using food stamps and other public benefits. The solution applies across the country, not just in the state of Illinois, writes NPR.

Photo: Shutterstock

The Illinois Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition (ICIRR) and Cook County filed a lawsuit in September 2019 in hopes of blocking the rule, but it was put into effect in January this year by the US Supreme Court. However, Feinerman said the rule violates the Administrative Procedure Act, which regulates the process federal agencies use to develop and issue regulations.

Under the rule, an immigrant would be denied a green card if he received food stamps or other health or housing benefits and if there was a high likelihood that he would qualify for them in the future. Under the Trump administration's rule, these candidates would be considered a "public charge."

ICIRR and Cook County argued that the term "public charge," meaning a person considered dependent on a country, is ambiguous and requires a "degree of dependence" greater than temporary assistance from the government, court papers said.

On the subject: List of benefits and allowances for which an immigrant may be recognized as a 'social burden'

The Trump administration has argued that the rule would filter out candidates unable to support themselves in the United States. Immigrant rights advocates believe this rule forces people to choose between their health and the ability to stay in the country. Cook County officials also argued that the rule led immigrants to rely on expensive emergency medical care instead of preventive care.

“As COVID-19 continues to impact us all, it is vital that no one fears access to health care,” Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a statement. “The court’s decision to block enforcement of the public charge rule reopens the door for immigrants to access vital services like health care.”

Read also on ForumDaily:

California court forces ICE to release hundreds of criminal immigrants

Iran and Russia received data from American voters: what are they doing with them

The United States has expanded the list of violations due to which they will deny political asylum

Unconditional income: a city in California will distribute money to residents, including illegal immigrants

Do you want more important and interesting news about life in the USA and immigration to America? — support us donate! Also subscribe to our page Facebook. Select the “Priority in display” option and read us first. Also, don't forget to subscribe to our РєР ° РЅР ° Р »РІ Telegram  and Instagram- there is a lot of interesting things there. And join thousands of readers ForumDaily New York — there you will find a lot of interesting and positive information about life in the metropolis.