A new rule has been announced, allowing active recipients of DACA, known as “Dreamers,” to enroll in a qualified health plan or a basic health plan under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), along with some forms of financial assistance. This comes after much speculation over executive actions the Biden administration may take on immigration issues, including potentially cracking down on asylum at the border or making work permits available to certain immigrants living in the country illegally.
While many of these potential actions are controversial, Dreamers – undocumented immigrants who came to the country as minors – have generally received broader public support compared to other undocumented groups. Immigration is a significant campaign issue this election season, with Biden’s efforts to provide Dreamers with health insurance standing in contrast to former President Trump’s attempts to end the program.
Neera Tanden, director of the Domestic Policy Council, emphasized that the final rule demonstrates the president’s commitment to protecting Dreamers and DACA recipients, providing necessary support for them to flourish and achieve their potential. Additionally, the rule reflects Biden’s belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, for all Americans, extending to DACA recipients just like everyone else.
While the new rule does not make DACA recipients eligible for Medicaid or parts of the Children’s Health Insurance Program, they will qualify for financial aid programs already available to noncitizens who cannot access Medicaid due to their immigration status. In a statement, Biden expressed that Dreamers are an integral part of society – loved ones, nurses, teachers, and small business owners – and deserve access to healthcare just like everyone else. The rule is a victory for those who have long fought for healthcare equity for all Americans.
