A legal challenge has been launched against a new federal policy that expands immigration officers’ discretion to deny green cards to applicants who have used public benefits. The move modifies a century-old "public charge" rule, originally designed to prevent newcomers from becoming dependent on government assistance. The lawsuit, filed by a coalition of states and the District of Columbia, argues the updated policy shifts authority away from established guidelines. Critics say the change could discourage lawful immigration by broadening the criteria for denial.
The policy allows immigration officers the authority to deny green cards to those using public benefits A coalition of 22 states and the District of Columbia sued the Trump administration on Monday over a new policy that would allow individual immigration officers to deny green cards based on use of public benefits.The new policy changes a long-established “public charge” rule, which dates back to the Immigration Act of 1882, established to ensure that newcomers to the country would be able to provide for themselves without relying on governmental benefits. Continue reading...
