States Sue Over Broader Public Charge Rule | Yakima News

Yakima News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Sep 14, 2026 · 1m

Twenty-one states, including New York, are suing the Department of Homeland Security over a sweeping new rule that could deny green cards, visas, or entry to immigrants who use public benefits — from Medicaid to school lunches. The controversial “public charge” expansion threatens millions, forcing a painful choice between essential services and legal status. Critics call it cruel and fear-inducing, while officials warn it could cripple local economies and health systems — with states footing the bill. The lawsuit argues Congress never meant this broad interpretation and demands the rule be…