DHS Formally Publishes ‘Public Charge’ Rule

On Oct. 10, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) formally published a proposed rule that would add Section 8 rental assistance, public housing, and other programs to a list of public benefits DHS considers when it attempts to ensure that those seeking to enter and remain in the United States either temporarily or permanently can support themselves financially and will not be reliant on public benefits.

The proposed rule would adopt a new income threshold that households would have to exceed to avoid being considered a public charge. An immigrant would have to earn at least 125 percent of the federal poverty level. The proposed rule would also negatively consider applicants with limited English proficiency (LEP) or with physical or mental health conditions that could affect their ability to work, attend school, or care for themselves.

You can find the proposed rule here.