Fair and Human Charge Rule Published

If you’ve been paying attention to the news this past year, you most likely heard about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security proposing a “Fair and Human Public Charge Rule” back in February. If you’re an immigrant who is either about to come to this country or already in this country, it was likely welcome news. We’re happy to announce that now, as of September 8, 2022, DHS has made a final rule to be published in the Federal Register regarding what constitutes a “public charge.” Read on and speak with our knowledgeable Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn more about the ruling and what it may mean for you.

What is a public charge?

Essentially, when an immigrant comes to this country, they must provide proof that they will not become a “public charge,” at any point, and if they should need financial assistance, that they’ll have someone in the United States who can support them financially. The previous administration declared that Medicaid and nutritional assistance were to be considered public charges, something that simply wasn’t the case in years past. Because of this decision, many immigrants were left wondering about their future here in the United States.

Fortunately, now, DHS has ruled that Medicaid and nutritional assistance are no longer public charges and those who accept these forms of financial assistance don’t have to worry about losing their right to remain here in the United States.

Of the recent Fair and Human Public Charge Rule, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said, “This action ensures fair and humane treatment of legal immigrants and their U.S. citizen family members. Consistent with America’s bedrock values, we will not penalize individuals for choosing to access the health benefits and other supplemental government services available to them.”

If you have any questions about the recently finalized rule, or any other immigration-related questions, please don’t hesitate to speak with our legal team today. We are here to provide clarification and help you in any way we can.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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