Media Contact
Pete Thomson
Chief Communications Officer
American Medical Student Association
Email: pr@amsa.org
AMSA Opposes Proposed Public Charge Rule
Sterling, Va., September 25, 2018 – On September 22, 2018, the administration released a draft of a proposed rule that redefines the term “public charge.” Under this rule, legally present immigrants who are deemed a public charge could be denied legal permanent residency (a green card), while individuals applying for a visa may be denied entry into the United States.
The proposed rule expands the definition of public charge, which traditionally applied to legal immigrants receiving cash assistance, to now include those who access a wide range of public benefits. These include Non-Emergency Medicaid, Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidies, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), public housing, and other essential welfare programs. This expansion would severely impact lawfully present immigrants seeking permanent residency, as many may fear that using these services could jeopardize their immigration status. The consequences would extend beyond immigration, as families may avoid necessary health care services, leading to detrimental health outcomes for entire communities.
The American Medical Student Association (AMSA) firmly believes that health care is a human right, regardless of race, class, gender, sexual orientation, disability, primary language, place of birth, or immigration status. The proposed public charge rule would prevent families from accessing health insurance and nutritional assistance, harming both individuals and the broader public health system. Restricting access to these essential services will have widespread implications, increasing health disparities and undermining the general welfare.¹ AMSA strongly opposes the public charge rule and any policy that restricts immigrant families’ access to medical care.
Once the rule is officially published in the Federal Register, the public comment period will remain open for 60 days. AMSA will provide updates as they become available. For more information on the proposed public charge rule, visit protectingimmigrantfamilies.org.
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About the American Medical Student Association:
AMSA is the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training in the United States. Founded in 1950, AMSA is a student-governed, non-profit organization committed to representing physicians-in-training, advocating for quality and affordable health care for all, and building the next generation of physician leaders. To join our community, visit amsa.org.