US to revive rule of no green cards for those who use public benefits

The Trump administration is reviving a controversial policy that could prevent immigrants from obtaining green cards if they have used public benefits. The rule, known as "public charge," requires applicants for permanent residency to demonstrate they will not become a "public charge" or a burden on the country.

This policy was first implemented in February 2020 during Trump's presidency but was subsequently reversed by the Biden administration. Its reintroduction, detailed in the Federal Register and set for formal publication on July 20, comes as the administration pursues stricter immigration measures targeting both illegal and legal immigration.

The timing of the policy's revival also occurs amidst rising costs for essential services such as healthcare and food, potentially impacting more immigrants who might rely on public assistance programs like food stamps, Medicaid, or housing vouchers.

The "public charge" rule has been a point of contention, with critics arguing it discourages immigrants from accessing necessary support and creates barriers to legal immigration.