On August 14, 2019, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule related to public charge in the Federal Register. The rule will not take effect until October 15, 2019. Additionally, many organizations have indicated they will file lawsuits challenging the legality of the rule. Thus, even after publication, legal challenges could delay implementation.

The new rule has created confusion and fear in our communities. Because it is very difficult to understand who might be impacted, many immigrant families have decided to disenroll or refuse enrolling in programs that are necessary to survive and thrive. Many immigrants remain exempt from this public charge rule and many immigrants continue to be eligible for various programs. 

We created a Toolkit to assist education and outreach workers presenting information to community members. Our goal is to spread accurate information about what the law is and who is impacted. We hope that these resources will enable community organizations to provide information in community forums and at community events so that families can make good decisions for their families.

Certain sections of this Toolkit will be translated into various languages in the near future. Please check our website for updates.