Trump Admin Rescinds Public Charge Rule

News24USA.Com Desk, New York, 16 July 2026: Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it will be implementing a new public charge rule to determine whether immigrants are eligible to become citizens, adjust status, or be admitted to the US based on the likelihood of becoming a public charge. The new policy will be published on Monday, July 20, in the Federal Register. It rescinds the Biden Administration’s Public Charge Rule, in effect since December 23, 2022, which limited public charge determinations to an applicant’s use of cash assistance or long-term government-funded institutional care. The new rule, however, will significantly expand the scope of DHS review, including consideration of an applicant’s–or the applicant’s family members’–continued use of a wide range of health or social service programs that the administration disfavors when reviewing applications.

The new policy will take effect on September 18, 2026. Only benefits received after that date, as well as the continued use of benefits by individuals seeking adjustment of status, can be used in a public charge determination. The current Biden Administration Rule of 2022 is still in effect and applies to cash assistance and long-term care received before the effective date. New Yorkers who have questions about the new rule and whether it applies to them can receive free and confidential information from the NYS Office of New Americans by calling 800-566-7636.

Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and their legal status. The changes to the Public Charge rule represent a dangerous step backward that will harm New Yorkers, who are already living with instability, insecurity, and fear. Too many families will avoid accessing necessary programs they are clearly eligible for out of fear that doing so could jeopardize a family member’s ability to change their immigration status. When families are forced to skip meals, avoid visits to the doctor, or withdraw from lifesaving programs that keep children healthy and housed, entire communities suffer. It’s critical that individuals and families consult legal advocates who understand the rule before making any decisions about applying for immigration benefits or disenrolling or not applying for public programs that could be essential to their well-being.” Press Release