This week, CSAC submitted
comments in response to the U.S. Department of Homeland
Security notice of proposed rulemaking related to the public
charge. The proposed rule would expand the definition of public
charge to require consideration of the current or potential
receipt of non-cash benefits for legal immigrants, including
Medicaid/Medi-Cal, SNAP/CalFresh, federally subsidized housing
and Medicare Part D financial assistance.
CSAC is concerned that legal immigrant families will not access
federal benefits for which they are eligible, especially for
children who may be eligible for health and nutritional supports.
The negative consequences from this proposed rule could include
disenrollment from health and social services, worse health and
wellbeing outcomes, as well as increased county
costs and administrative burdens.
CSAC developed the comments in partnership with county affiliates
including the County Welfare Directors Association, County Health
Executives Association of California, and the California
Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems. These
affiliates and numerous counties have submitted, or are planning
to submit, comments on this proposed rule.
The deadline to submit comments to the Department of Homeland
Security is December 10, 2018
