The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued an informational bulletin stating, the 2019 Public Charge Final Rule has been vacated and is no longer in effect as of March 9, 2021. CMS is reaching out to states and encouraging them to work with local partners and community groups to provide this important information for individuals needing health care coverage. The bulletin reminds states about their responsibilities to protect the rights of Medicaid applicants and their families, as well as safeguard applicant information. Health coverage is an essential need for eligible immigrants and their children. Sadly, due to fear, many families may not be seeking health coverage. CMS wants to emphasize that accessing health coverage through Medicaid or CHIP will not risk immigration status.
Read the full bulletin here.
