As the news cycle changes rapidly, an important proposed policy change with dire consequences has not received the attention it deserves: the “public charge” rule change. This proposed rule could deny permanent residency to immigrants living in the U.S. if they have used SNAP (formerly food stamps), Medicaid, federal housing assistance or other anti-poverty programs.
Our lives in this country should be defined by our contributions to our communities, not how much money we have. This rule would privilege the wealthy at the expense of families who have waited years for a green card. The rule would also would make immigrants afraid to seek access to healthy food, health care and housing for fear that taking care of their families’ basic needs would harm their immigration status. If it moves forward, the rule will have ripple effects on the health, development and economic outcomes of generations to come.
This proposed rule is immoral. We can act to stop it. Before the rule can be finalized, the administration is required to review and respond to every unique public comment they receive about the proposed regulation. We should all take a minute and leave a comment on the Federal Register.
— Sara Buckingham
Eagle River
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