Biden’s New Healthcare Rule Protects DACA Recipients and Reaffirms Commitment to Immigration Rights

The Biden administration has recently announced a new rule that will allow 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) and receive some forms of financial assistance. This decision comes after much speculation about potential executive actions on immigration issues, ranging from asylum policies to work permits for certain immigrants living in the country illegally.

While various immigration-related actions have sparked controversy, Dreamers, who came to the US as minors, generally enjoy broader public support. During this election season, immigration has become a significant campaign issue, with Biden’s move to provide health insurance for Dreamers standing in stark contrast to former President Trump’s efforts to end the DACA program.

Neera Tanden, director of the Domestic Policy Council, emphasized that the final rule reflects President Biden’s commitment to protecting Dreamers and ensuring they have the necessary support to succeed. The president believes that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and that it should be accessible to DACA recipients just like other Americans. While the new rule does not make DACA recipients eligible for Medicaid or certain parts of the Children’s Health Insurance Program, they will qualify for existing financial aid programs that are available to noncitizens who are ineligible for Medicaid due to their immigration status. Biden stressed that Dreamers are integral members of society and deserve access to healthcare just like everyone else.