LOS ANGELES – August 13, 2019 – Yesterday the Administration released its final “public charge” rule that would threaten the health and well-being of communities in California and beyond. The final regulation could prevent an immigrant from obtaining a “green card” if they have used certain health, nutrition or anti-poverty programs, such as Medi-Cal and CalFresh. The rule will force immigrant families to choose between accessing these critical support programs and keeping their families safe.
“The public charge rule will deter eligible immigrants from receiving critical services and supports, undermining the health and wellbeing of our communities,” said Louise McCarthy, President and CEO of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County (CCALAC). “It will force families to choose between their immigration status and putting food on the table. These essential programs help people out of poverty and create economic opportunity for low income communities.”
“LA’s clinics are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of all members of their communities, regardless of immigration status. We are confident that legal challenges will successfully block this rule from going into effect so patients can safely access services.”
CCALAC is a member of the Protecting Immigrant Families (PIF) Campaign and will continue to work with partners to resist any attacks on immigrant communities.
THE COMMUNITY CLINIC ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY (CCALAC) is the largest regional association of community clinics and health centers in California. Founded in 1994, CCALAC has 65 members that serve nearly 1.7 million patients throughout LA County. CCALAC is dedicated to serving and representing the interests of its member clinics as providers of quality health care, including medical, dental and pharmacy services. For more information about CCALAC, visit www.ccalac.org or call (213) 201-6500.