The Biden administration has recently announced a new rule that allows active recipients of DACA, commonly known as “Dreamers,” to enroll in a qualified health plan or a basic health plan under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and receive financial assistance. This decision comes amidst speculation about potential executive actions on immigration issues, including asylum policies and work permits for certain undocumented immigrants living in the country illegally.
While there has been controversy surrounding various immigration-related actions, Dreamers 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 access to healthcare and necessary support. The president believes that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and should be accessible to all Americans, including DACA recipients.
While the new rule does not make DACA recipients eligible for Medicaid or certain parts of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), they will qualify for existing financial aid programs available to noncitizens who are ineligible for Medicaid due to their immigration status. Biden highlighted that Dreamers are integral members of society and deserve access to healthcare just like everyone else.
