Media Contact:
Jordan Baker
jbaker@frac.org
202-640-1118
Statement attributed to Luis Guardia, president, Food Research & Action Center (FRAC)
WASHINGTON, September 8, 2022 — The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) commends the Biden administration for issuing a new final public charge rule that provides confirmation to eligible immigrant families that they can access and benefit from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and housing assistance without negative repercussions to their immigration status.
The new Department of Homeland Security public charge rule unequivocally states that, applying for or receiving SNAP, Medicaid, and housing benefits will not be considered in a public charge determination. This new rule signifies that eligible immigrant families should not be penalized for seeking vital assistance that will not only improve their health, nutrition, and well-being, but also lead to a more compassionate, productive, and thriving nation for all.
While this is an essential step in mitigating hunger among immigrant families, there is still much work to be done to ensure all families, regardless of immigration status, can access the nutrition they need to thrive.
FRAC now looks forward to working with state agencies, anti-hunger partners, and the Protecting Immigrant Families coalition to spread awareness about immigrant eligibility for SNAP and other nutrition programs, and calls on Congress to pass the LIFT the Bar Act to rescind arbitrary and harsh eligibility rules that terminate, impede, or undercut SNAP access and exacerbate racial and health inequities.
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The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) improves the nutrition, health, and well-being of people struggling against poverty-related hunger in the United States through advocacy, partnerships, and by advancing bold and equitable policy solutions. To learn more, visit FRAC.org and follow us on Twitter and on Facebook.
