WASHINGTON, DC—Yesterday, the Department of Homeland Security released a notice of proposed rulemaking outlining a plan to rescind the 2022 rulemaking that clarified and narrowed the definition of public charge. A public charge determination is a component of immigration law that allows federal authorities to deny legal status to individuals who are determined to primarily rely on government assistance. Public charge is only used for applications for visas or green cards. It is not used for applications for citizenship.
This is a proposed rule. No changes go into effect while DHS reviews public comments and considers final regulation.
The National WIC Association recognizes that changes in immigration policy can create confusion or concern for families. We want to be clear about what this proposal does, and does not, change for WIC. We want to be clear that WIC’s role remains unchanged under this proposal.
The following is a statement from Georgia Machell, president and CEO of NWA:
“WIC is not and has never been a factor in public charge determinations. Today’s proposal does nothing to change that. WIC remains committed to serving all eligible families and helping them thrive.”
Families can continue to access WIC services as they always have. WIC is not considered in public charge determinations, and this proposal does not affect eligibility or participation. If families have questions or concerns about public charge or their access to WIC, their local WIC clinic can help connect them with trusted community resources. You can also find out if you might be eligible using signupwic.com.