The Trump administration is reviving the “public charge” rule, which affects how U.S. immigration officials evaluate green card (lawful permanent resident) applications for people deemed likely to rely on government support. Multiple outlets report that the rule appears in the Federal Register and is scheduled for formal publication on July 20, with the policy taking effect Sept. 18. The rule requires applicants to show they would not be a “public charge,” a test intended to reflect whether they can support themselves rather than depend on public resources.
Sources say the policy expanded the range of programs that may count against applicants, potentially including food stamps (SNAP), Medicaid, housing vouchers, and other safety-net assistance. While federal law already requires many applicants to demonstrate they are not likely to become a public charge, reporting indicates the revived rule broadens what can be considered.
The policy was first implemented in February 2020 during the Trump administration, then reversed after President Joe Biden took office. In explaining the revival, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says it is restoring self-reliance and protecting public resources. Immigrant advocates and health experts previously criticized the approach as creating a “wealth test” and discouraging eligible families from using benefits.
