PHILADELPHIA — Today Mayor Jim Kenney, Office of Immigrant Affairs Director Miriam Enriquez, and Policy Director for the Managing Director’s Office Health and Human Services Cabinet Julia Hinckley submitted comments in opposition to the Trump administration’s proposed “public charge” policy change. The proposal will create fear and confusion that could cause hard-working immigrant families to avoid accessing health care, housing, and food assistance; could result in drastic reductions to legal immigration to the United States; and destabilize families by denying green cards to parents of US citizen children. Across the nation it would put the well-being of millions at risk.
“Our diversity is one of Philadelphia’s greatest strengths,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “We believe all residents should have the opportunity to achieve the American dream, regardless of where you came from or when you got here. Because of this, I am firmly opposed to the changes regarding ‘public charge.’ This proposed rule would reverse policy that is fundamental to the identity of our country as a place where immigrants can come with just a few dollars in their pocket, work hard, build a better life for themselves and contribute to their new communities. This proposed rule change extinguishes that tradition and will result in confusion, fear, and hardship among Philadelphia’s immigrant community. It will endanger the health and well-being of tens of thousands of Philadelphians, and it will harm our city’s economy.”
View Mayor Kenney’s full comment here.
View Julia Hinckley and Miriam Enriquez’s joint comment here.
Today was the last day to submit a public comment on the proposed policy change to public charge. Information on how to submit a comment and who will be most affected by changes to public charge can be found in the City’s Public Charge Action Guide.