Office of Immigrant Affairs Provides Information Following Publication of New Federal Public Charge Rule
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule that changes how immigration officials decide whether certain non-citizens applying for immigration status may be considered a “public charge.” The rule rescinds the 2022 Biden‑era public charge inadmissibility regulations and gives immigration officers broader discretion to weigh factors such as income, health, age, family status, and use of public benefits.
DHS first announced the rule on July 16, 2026, and published it on August 18, 2026. The new rule will take effect on September 18, 2026.
These changes have raised concerns among immigrant families and mixed-status households about how accessing public programs and services may affect immigration options. DCBA's Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs (OIA) is sharing this information to help clarify the rule and who it may affect.
It's important to note that this rule does not apply to everyone. It only affects certain immigrants applying for specific benefits, primarily those applying for a green card through a family member.
OIA encourages service providers, community partners, and community members to learn more about the new rule before deciding whether to enroll in or withdraw from public benefits.
Register for a Free Webinar to Learn More
To help answer questions, the Office of Immigrant Affairs and the Benefits Access Los Angeles Network (BAILA) will host free webinars explaining the new Public Charge Rule, outlining key changes - including how the new rule will be applied - and sharing resources for community members and service providers.
UPCOMING WEBINARS:
Sessions in additional languages will be announced in the coming days.
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