The Biden administration has unveiled a plan to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid coverage to DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients, treating them similarly to other groups with temporary legal status. The Department of Health and Human Services intends to amend the definition of "lawful presence" to include DACA recipients, allowing them to apply for coverage through the health insurance marketplace and state Medicaid agencies. Advocacy groups have praised the move, emphasizing President Biden's recognition of DACA recipients' contributions and dignity. DACA, established in 2012 by the Obama administration, provides temporary legal status to roughly 600,000 immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children. While DACA doesn't offer permanent status, the Biden administration has urged Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for recipients. Currently, DACA recipients are eligible for some health services in the U.S., including emergency Medicaid. However, the DACA program faces legal challenges, with a federal judge ruling it illegal and pausing new applications, though existing recipients remain protected pending appeal. Click here for article.
Expanding Coverage:
The Biden administration plans to extend ACA and Medicaid coverage to DACA recipients, treating them similarly to others with temporary legal status.
Amended Definition:
The Department of Health and Human Services will propose an amended definition of "lawful presence" to include DACA recipients, allowing them to apply for coverage.
Advocacy and Support:
Advocacy groups have applauded the decision, highlighting President Biden's recognition of DACA recipients' contributions and dignity.
DACA Background:
DACA, established in 2012, provides temporary legal status to around 600,000 immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children. It doesn't grant permanent status, and the Biden administration has urged Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for recipients.
Legal Challenges:
Despite the announcement, the DACA program faces legal challenges, with a federal judge ruling it illegal and pausing new applications. Existing recipients remain protected while the ruling is appealed.
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