In October 2018 the Federal Register proposed a change to the current "public charge" rule which, if fully implemented, would punish poor immigrants for participating in public benefits programs by denying them access to visas or lawful permanent residence. The proposed changes were open for public comment until December 10, 2018. This rule would affect many families like Emily and Jose, who are still waiting to hear back on the status of their application. 

NIJC was among hundreds of immigrant, social, and civil rights organizations nationwide that mobilized to submit public comments highlighting legal and human rights concerns with the proposed rule. More than 190,000 comments were submitted regarding the rule, which the Department of Homeland Security must now review and respond to before implementing the rule.

Truthdig: U.S. Seeks to Change Rules Affecting Migrant Families (8/25/18)

Reveal: Federal government files new regulations that will impact way migrant families are treated (8/24/18)