CWDA Statement on National Stay of “Public Charge” Rule

Press release Amanda Kirchner

“After standing with Governor Newsom and California Attorney General Becerra against the “public charge” rule and in support of their lawsuit against it, CWDA is pleased that multiple courts have ordered a stay of the rule. CWDA is relieved that the entire rule will not go into effect until the process plays out in our courts and will not be going into effect anywhere next week. The “public charge” rule change would only have harmed immigrant families nationwide should it have gone into effect next week as was planned.

“Unfortunately, given the confusion and fear around this rule, and regardless of the stay, the chilling effect that this will have on immigrant families accessing benefits they need and are eligible for remains a major concern for our members. We continue to urge immigrant families not to pull themselves or their children off public assistance programs that they are eligible for until they speak with a legal professional as the “public charge” rule change is not in effect and might not affect them or their family at all even if it were to take effect in the future.”