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Final Public Charge Rule

Overview:

The “Public Charge” rule, part of federal immigration law for decades, is designed to identify people who may depend on government benefits as their main source of support. If the government determines someone is likely to become a “public charge,” they can deny admission to the US or refuse an application for permanent residency. 

Under the Trump Administration, the Public Charge Rule was expanded to include non-monetary benefits including Medicare and nutrition assistance. A 2022 ruling restored the “historical definition” of the Public Charge Rule in a massive victory for immigrants and advocates. 

[READ MIRC’S STATEMENT ON THE PUBLIC CHARGE FINAL RULE] 

Maine’s General Assistance Rule #22E – Access for Certain Non-Citizens

Overview:

On June 18th, 2019, Gov. Janet Mills announced that her administration will relax restrictions on General Assistance eligibility. This ruling allows more asylum seekers to qualify for welfare benefits, reversing a LePage Administration policy that restricted elegibility in response to a recent surge of migrants. 

[READ THE RULE AT MAINE.GOV]