CA State Health and Human Services Leaders Issue Joint Statement on Federal Public Charge Changes

SACRAMENTO – California’s health and human services leaders today issued the following joint statement on the Biden Administration’s announcement that it will no longer enforce the 2019 public charge final rule.

Joint statement from California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly; California Department of Social Services Director Kim Johnson; California Department of Public Health Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón; and California Department of Health Care Services Director Will Lightbourne:

“Immigrants and their loved ones across California can seek and accept medical care, food assistance and public housing without fear or confusion, thanks to changes in federal policy. They won’t be forced to choose between getting help for basic needs and their ability to stay with their families in the United States.

To immigrant families in California, we want you to know that California fought to end this shameful policy and you should continue to use available public services that help you and your family thrive and be healthy. Remember that medical testing, treatment and preventative services for COVID-19, including vaccines, will not be considered for public charge purposes. If you have questions, you can find a list of nonprofit organizations providing legal immigration services on the California Department of Social Services website.

To providers across California administering health and social services programs, thank you! We are grateful for all you do to ensure that everyone has access to basic services. Your efforts further our collective work to build a healthy, vibrant, and inclusive California for All.”

For more information on federal changes to the public charge rule click here.

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The following statement is from Jacey Cooper, State Medicaid Director and DHCS Chief Deputy Director for Health Care Programs:

“We welcome the federal decision to stop treating Medi-Cal as a public charge. Diseases, including deadly pandemics like COVID-19, ignore borders and legal distinctions between people, so it’s in everyone’s best interest that all individuals get the care they need.”