Administration Updates Public Charge Rule Related To Immigrant Use Of Safety Net Programs, Now Includes Medicaid

The federal government plans to implement changes to the Public Charge Rule for determining whether a non-citizen who used safety net social service programs is eligible for a green card renewal or citizenship. The rule goes into effect on September 18, 2026. The Public Charge Rule requires U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to determine whether any non-citizen who applies for a visa, admission, or adjustment of status is inadmissible if they are likely at any time to become reliant on means-tested safety net social services, such as Medicaid . . .